Outline the history of manufacturing, with an emphasis on the development of manufacturing in the United States.

Outline should include a summary of the critical stages that manufacturing has undergone, as well as the factors influencing the development of manufacturing, including

  • materials
  • energy sources
  • transportation
  • communication
  • design
  • process improvement
  • employment
  • market research
  • suppliers
  • capital
  • commission
  • quality control.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • How did the invention of the steam engine affect manufacturing?
  • What were the two most important improvements made by Watt’s steam engine?
  • What century is associated with the American system of manufacturing?
  • In what way did the invention of interchangeable parts alter manufacturing? Line production? Automation?
  • What economic class of people did manufacturing jobs help build in the United States during the 19th century?
  • What are the critical stages of United States manufacturing?
  • How have natural resources contributed to the development of United States manufacturing?
  • What years are considered the peak (so far) of United States manufacturing?
  • How is manufacturing developing further through the advent of additive manufacturing, augmented reality, and nanotechnology?