James Watt

1736–1819

Father of the modern steam engine.

Lifetime

1736–1819

Birthplace

Greenock

Field

Innovation

Life & Work

Full biographical content for James Watt is featured in our linked invention articles. Use the Key Inventions panel below to dive into the specific breakthroughs.

Key Inventions

ImageWatt Steam Engine

Engineering & PowerPublished

Watt Steam Engine

James Watt · 1769

The separate condenser that powered the Industrial Revolution.

ImageRadar

MilitaryComing Soon

Radar

Robert Watson-Watt · 1935

The detection system that won the Battle of Britain.