The sewing machine, a transformative invention of the Industrial Revolution, evolved through several key stages. English inventor Thomas Saint designed the first sewing machine in 1790, although its functionality is debated. French tailor Barthelemy Thimonnier created the first functional machine in 1830, but it faced opposition from tailors fearing job displacement. American inventor Elias Howe is credited with developing a practical lockstitch machine in 1845, which laid the groundwork for the modern sewing machine.