How did the transportation revolution change life in America?
America was clearly a nation in transition at the turn of the
century. The progressive movement demanded change in the way business
lived our lives but business also demand similar change through the
invention of new technology.
I. The Transportation Revolution
A. The Automobile
1. Henry Ford
a) Invented Car called the Model T – Ford. The key was
the internal combustion engine.b) affordable and durable
c) developed assembly line which increased productivity.
2. Effects
a) Urban Sprawl – The development of
suburbs as a result of the automobile was very important. Suburbs led
to the growth of cities into what was a called a “metropolis.” Today
we actually have seen cities spread out over enormous distances. The
whole east and west coast are connected. The connection of several
metropolis’ is known as a “megalopolis.”b) Five Dollar Day – High pay to counteract high employee
turnover. This forced other businesses
to raise wages. A new, larger middle class was created.B. Airplane (Dec. 17 1903)
1. First flown in the United States by Orville and
Wilbur Wright in Kitty Hawk NC. The key to the success of the
airplane was the development of wings that would create lift when
enough speed was generated.2. At first little interest, in WWI it was widely used for combat.
3. After the war it was used for mail. By WWII the airplane was a
very important mode of transportation.