Scottish inventor James Watt is best known for his improvements to the steam engine, which revolutionized the industrial revolution. He was born in Greenock, Scotland in 1736 and was an instrument maker by trade. His inventions included the separate condenser, which increased the efficiency of the steam engine, and the rotary motion. He also developed the concept of horsepower and made improvements to the steamboat. Watt's inventions had a major impact on the development of modern industry.