In an effort to combat problems in mining operations, particularly the issue of water inundating deep mines, Thomas Savery, an engineer and inventor from England, developed a revolutionary steam engine that was patented in 1698. This steam engine, known as the 'Miner's Friend', utilized steam pressure to create a vacuum that could lift water from great depths, showcasing a novel application of steam power for practical and industrial purposes. The design sought to provide a solution for the frequent flooding faced by miners, ultimately making mineral extraction safer and more efficient.

Savery’s patent detailed a method whereby steam was introduced into a cylinder, creating a pressure differential that enabled the drawing of water into a chamber. Remarkably, his steam engine did not require a boiler to generate steam at high pressures, which allowed it to be employed in a safe and functional manner in mining contexts. While his initial designs were not widely adopted for many years due to various limitations, they sparked considerable interest and laid the foundation for future advancements in steam technology.

Savery's invention was significant not merely for its immediate utility but also as a precursor to the development of more advanced steam engines, most notably those by James Watt in the 18th century. As industrialization gained momentum, innovations in steam power became essential to the expansion and efficiency of industries, transforming economies and societies worldwide. Savery's early work exemplified the fusion of scientific discovery and practical application that characterized the Industrial Revolution era.