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The Industrial Revolution heralded a new frontier in mining technology. Machines began taking center stage, with the steam shovel at the forefront. Patented in 1839 by American engineer William Otis, the steam shovel allowed for the efficient excavation of earth, and its application became crucial to monumental projects like the Panama Canal.

The techniques developed during this era laid the foundation for what would become some of the most impressive mining vehicles in history.

The Rise of the Bagger Machines

The 1940s and 1950s witnessed the introduction of colossal mining vehicles known as Baggers—named for their impressive digging capabilities. The Bagger 293, the largest of its kind, towers at 96 meters high and holds multiple world records for size and energy efficiency.