Inventions of the Industrial Revolution

Cotton Gin:

Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin. The cotton gin automated the separation of cottonseed from the short-staple cotton fiber. It made mass production of cotton possible. Prior to this invention, cotton picking meant long hours and many laborers. The cotton gin made this work more efficient.

Telephone:

Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone in the 1870s. This device could transmit speech electronically and allowed for a quicker, simpler means of communication. The telephone changed the world of communication forever.

Steam Engine:

James Watt did not invent the first steam engine, but he did perfect it. The idea was brought about by Thomas Savery then improved by Thomas Newcomen but still wasn't completely reliable. In the 1760s, Watt was put to the task of repairing one of Newcomen's designs. This new engine became dominant during the Industrial Revolution and led to new means of transportation from railroad car to boats.