Technological advances in America that improved the quality of living for Americans between 1865-1929 (TM)
By tashamcadams
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Telephone
The telephone forever changed how Americans communicated. Alexander Graham Bell was the first to receive a patent on the telephone, even though he was not the first to formulate the concept. The use of the telephone allowed for instant communication, no matter how great the distance. Telephones furnished an easy method of communication for people on farms and in cities. Phones provided family members ways to keep in touch near or far, as well as improving the ease of conducting business. -
Incandescent light bulb
The invention of the incandescent light bulb by Thomas Edison was a pivotal moment in American History. He arranged a public demonstration in Menlo Park, New Jersey. This invention allowed for lighting in homes, other than gas lamps. Which provided a safer and cheaper alternative for American families. The incandescent light bulb also allowed for companies to work longer hours increasing productivity, as well as providing working families a means to earn extra income. -
Alternating Current Generator
Developed by Nikola Tesla the alternating current generator allowed power supplies for lights and equipment to reach for miles from the site of the power source. This invention permitted factories to run 24/7 thus increasing the need for more employees, which provided much needed jobs to families. The concept of AC power also made possible other means of entertainment like power for Coney Island Amusement Park, giving families opportunity for family enjoyment. -
Radio
In 1895 another new technological invention, the radio, was born. Guglielmo Marconi was given the patent for the invention of the radio despite controversy between him and Nikola Tesla. The radio was the first device to allow large scale communications not only between people but also between ships. Radio provided Americans with news and entertainment while allowing for mass wireless broadcasting. The radio is believed to have sparked the idea for many other technological ideas. -
Movies
The 1920’s gave way to a new form of entertainment for Americans, the movies. The birth of silent movies and movie palaces offered Americans an affordable way of entertaining the whole family, young and old. During this time films were believed to be the most popular form of entertainment in America. Going to the movies allowed for an escape from troubles and worries for a brief time. The film industry took place mainly in New York, until 1910 when the first Hollywood movie was filmed. -
Model T
In 1920's, Henry Ford’s production of the Model T, opened doors for many American families. With the mass production of the Model T’s, automobiles that was once considered a luxury, became accessible for American families. With Henry Ford’s perfection of the assembly line, Americans could take advantage of the lower priced Model T. The Model T was affordable for student and low income families. Allowing any American the ability to enjoy the freedom and mobility that owning a car provided.
