I WONDER - What Is Hydro Energy?

Humans have utilized hydropower for over 5,000 years, initially to power machinery using water wheels in rivers. This method was crucial for milling grains into flour. It wasn't until after 1880 that hydropower began to be used for generating electricity, marking a significant evolution in its application.

When did hydropower start being used to create electricity?

What impact did the power of water have on society before 1880?