Eli Whitney
Perhaps the most notable American inventor to help shape the northern industry is Eli Whitney. Among his inventions include the cotton gin and the interchangeable parts. Whitney invented the cotton gin in hopes for decreasing the need for slaves. It immediately boosted the southern economy (“King Cotton”) and made a huge impact in the Industrial Revolution. Unfortunately, the cotton gin ended up increasing the need for slaves. The interchangeable parts was another of Whitney’s invention, which started the concept of mass production. |  |
Above: A model of Eli Whitney's cotton gin.
