This paper describes the transformation of the mining technology in Mexico from the Spanish colonial time to the Industrial Revolution. The comparison includes the machinery employed between the 16th century and the beginning of the 19th century. In a few years, mining and metallurgical processes drastically changed from wood and animal power to steel and steam engines. Changes implied not only the introduction of new technologies, such as steam engines, rails, dynamite, water pumps, and many other tools, but also new organizations, skills, and techniques. During the colonial period, machines and metallurgical processes were locally developed, and the working organization depended on intense labor activities and animal power. From the 19th century, production increased due to better machines, the use of explosives, and improvements in transportation systems. This paper contributes to disseminating the evolution of technology, comparing the technological transformation of machines and mechanisms.
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