Answer:The history of robotics is rich and varied, spanning several centuries of development and innovation. Here’s a brief overview:1. **Ancient Automata (circa 400 BCE - 1500 CE)**: Early forms of automata were created by various cultures. For example, the Greeks and Chinese designed mechanical devices powered by water or steam. Notable figures include Hero of Alexandria, who created various mechanical devices.2. **The Renaissance and Early Modern Period (1500 - 1800s)**: During the Renaissance, inventors like Leonardo da Vinci sketched designs for mechanical devices, including a robotic knight. The 18th century saw the creation of intricate clockwork automata that could perform simple tasks.3. **Industrial Revolution (1800s - early 1900s)**: The Industrial Revolution provided the technological foundation for modern robotics. The development of machines and automated production lines set the stage for more advanced robotics.4. **Early 20th Century**: In the 1920s, the term "robot" was popularized by Czech writer Karel Čapek in his play "R.U.R." (Rossum's Universal Robots). The first true industrial robot, Unimate, was developed in the 1950s by George Devol and Joseph Engelberger. It was used in a General Motors assembly line starting in 1961.5. **Late 20th Century**: The 1980s and 1990s saw rapid advancements in robotics, including the development of autonomous robots and advances in artificial intelligence. The introduction of robots like ASIMO by Honda in 2000 showcased significant progress in humanoid robotics.6. **21st Century**: Recent decades have seen exponential growth in robotics, including advancements in AI, machine learning, and robotics applications. Robotics is now used in various fields, including healthcare (surgical robots), exploration (rovers on Mars), and service industries (home assistance robots).The field continues to evolve with ongoing research in robotics, AI, and human-robot interaction shaping the future of technology.