Who played a key role in establishing the American manufacturing industry by bringing British technology to America?

Study for the CLEP US History 1 Test. Immerse in flashcards and multiple choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The key role in establishing the American manufacturing industry by bringing British technology to America can be attributed to Samuel Slater. He is often referred to as the "Father of the American Industrial Revolution" due to his critical contributions in the late 18th century. Slater emigrated from England, where he had worked in a textile factory, and arrived in the United States in 1789. He possessed detailed knowledge of the machinery used in British textile mills, and he played a pivotal role in establishing the first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill in the United States in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, in 1793.

His ability to replicate British manufacturing techniques laid the groundwork for the growth of the textile industry in America. This not only marked the beginning of a new era of industrialization but also contributed to the shift from agrarian economies to manufacturing-based economies in various parts of the country.

In contrast, while Eli Whitney is known for his invention of the cotton gin and contributions to the concept of interchangeable parts, and Robert Fulton is recognized for his advancements in steamboat technology, Samuel Morse is famed for developing the telegraph and Morse code. These individuals made significant advancements in their respective fields, but it was Samuel Slater who specifically facilitated the transfer

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