APUSH Technology Timeline

  • Cotton Gin

    Invented by Eli Whitney, this machine was a huge improvement to the efficiency of picking cotton. It also led to a vast growth in cotton, which also led to slavery becoming more widely used.
  • Typewriter

    Invented by Thomas Edison, the typewriter allowed everyone to have access to movable type.
  • Telephone

    Invented by Alexander Graham Bell, this invention allowed for vocal communication from long distances.
  • Light Bulb

    Invented by Thomas Edison, the light bulb allowed for a far more practical light source than the candle.
  • Coca-Cola

    Invented in 1886 by Dr. John Pemberton, this would-be medicine turned into one of the most popular drinks in modern history.
  • Film Camera

    Invented by George Eastman, the camera allowed for far better photos than those in the past.
  • Radio

    Invented by Guglielmo Marconi, this invention allowed for broadcasts that could be heard from across a nation or the world.
  • Assembly Line

    Invented by Ransom Olds, the assembly line allowed for specialization and increased efficiency in production.
  • Airplane

    Invented by the Wright brothers, the airplane allowed for far faster transportation that before.
  • Atomic Bomb

    The first of a new class of superweapons, this invention has defined both politics and military ever since its invention.