The document discusses the impact of the Industrial Revolution on graphic design in the 19th century. It notes how steam power allowed for faster printing presses, mass producing goods and information. This led to a need for graphic designs that could be more easily reproduced at larger scale for advertising and posters to communicate with more literate urban populations. Many new typeface designs emerged during this time including styles like fat-face, Tuscan, and Egyptian inspired designs that featured thick, high-contrast letters suited for the faster communication needs of industrial society. Major type founders like William Caslon, Vincent Figgins, and American foundries innovated new typeface styles during this transformative period.