I am currently playing a noble game on large map. Its is the late 1800's and I have just moved into the Industrial era. There are three civs ahead of me but only by 1 or 2 techs. What I'm wondering is, is it normal to be only just into the Industrial era in the 1800's. On civ 3 you used to be able to launch a spaceship in the mid 1500's or earlier. I am playing as Genghis. Is there anyway to quicken up research to get to the modern era earlier in the game?

Playing as Genghis, I would imagine that you would want to be winning a conquest or domination victory by the 1600s +/- (assuming one of the slower game speeds). Focus on military techs and use your military advantage to capture or raze opposing cities. If you have other civs close to you then go for domination (watch that you control your expansion though...). If they are a bit far away, go for conquest.