The Difference Engine

Ever since the invention of the steam engine, work has become faster and more automated. Where there is progress on work, there's always military applications. Giant constructs designed as war machines, planes, cars, and even people all made to be powered off of steam. Some time in the late 1800s, diesel was invented. It appeared to be a wonder fuel. You could get more use out of it than steam. That is where humanity split. One side believed steam was a gift from a mechanical god, while the other believed diesel was a man made wonder that would push humanity into space.