Cotton Gin (invented by Eli Whitney in 1793): a machine that quickly separates cotton fibers from seeds, revolutionizing cotton production and increasing the demand for slavery (see impact on slavery in other sections).
Interchangeable Parts (popularized by Eli Whitney in the late 18th century): standardized components that can be replaced individually, enabling mass production and easier repair of goods.
Steam Power (developed during the late 18th and early 19th centuries): the use of steam engines to drive machinery, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing, and facilitating the Industrial Revolution.
Telegraphs (developed by Samuel Morse in the 1830s): devices that transmit messages over long distances using coded signals, transforming communication across the United States.
Reapers (invented by Cyrus McCormick in 1831): mechanical harvesters that significantly increased the efficiency of grain harvesting, contributing to agricultural productivity.
1. What is the cotton gin?
2. Who invented the cotton gin and in what year?
3. What was the primary role of the factory system and textile mills during the Industrial Revolution in the United States?
Inventions — role in economy?
Fueled industrialization and growth
Cotton gin — inventor?
Eli Whitney
Interchangeable parts — purpose?
Enable mass production and repair
Steam power — impact?
Revolutionized transportation and manufacturing
Telegraphs — inventor?
Samuel Morse
Reapers — inventor?
Cyrus McCormick
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