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Telephone invented by Alexander Graham Bell
Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in 1876. This was one of the greatest achievements. The United States had fifty thousand telephones in use by 1880. This included one in the White House. By 1900, telephones were so popular that there were nearly 1.35 million in use and local services were in use in American cities for their citizens. This technology enabled Americans to interact closer and quicker with its surrounding countries. This was especially beneficially for trading purposes. -
Thomas Edison invented the Light Bulb
In 1879, Thomas Edison invented the incandescent light bulb. This invention is what led to his fame. He looked at over six thousand different materials for the filament before coming across tungsten as the best substance. Edison Electric Illuminating Company began in 1882. It was largely support and financed by financier J.P. Morgan and was supplying electricity to a small number of customers in New York City. In 1889, Edison General Electric Company was founded. -
The Spanish-American War began
In 1898, the Spanish-American War began. It signified a crucial milestone in America’s development as an empire. This war was noted because the United States gained territory over another empire. More importantly it is recognized for its significant military power. Military forces had grown tremendously, especially the Navy, overtime which aided in this victory. Over one million men, who were not soldiers and brought their own guns, volunteer to be a part of this war. -
Panama Canal was created
It was constructed across the fifty-mile isthmus of Panama. The canals main purpose of construction was for military reasons which were associated with the empire. Another reason for the construction of the canal was for international trade considerations. President Roosevelt made an alliance with Panamanian people and offered them $10 million plus the annual $250,000 rental fee for the building of the canal. These same terms were previously offered to Colombia who rejected this proposal. -
First Ford Car available to the Average American
Henry Ford’s Model T Ford was now available for the average American. It was no longer seen as a luxury. The price was lowered from $850 to $300 in 1924. With the decrease in price, there were over twenty-three million automobiles being driven by Americans in 1929. The assembly line was created to reduce labor cost within the production. Many African Americans moved to Detroit for work. The tasks for the assembly were simple so more individuals could be hired for lower costs. -
"Talkie" Movies
Due to increased prosperity, Americans started spending money on entertainment. Due to the popularity of “moving pictures”, “movie palaces” were built. These could seat thousands and continued to be built in major cities. It cost twenty-five cents for a live show and double feature. This allowed people to relax and escape from their problem temporarily. The first “talkie” movie was released in 1927 in New York. This film was called “The Jazz Singer.” This transitioned from silent movies.
