The Automotive Ascension
There was a point in American history where the city of Detroit and its industrial prominence was vital to the success of our nation. Decades after the Industrial Revolution that saw our nation become more focused on the industrial businesses, Detroit became the mecca of automobile production. It all began with Henry Ford and his innovation of the assembly line to mass produce vehicles for his multiple automobile manufacturing plants. This brought a large amount of jobs and profit to the city of Detroit as they experienced a significantly large economic spurt. At the peak of this growth, they were among the most popular automobile brands in the nation. This time of economic stability allowed for many natives of Detroit to settle into a community role and start families. The large amount of jobs that were available at the production facilities resulted in the creation of the middle-class community. Prior to the growth of this industry, there had not been an established middle class within most of the nation. The community of Detroit became a glowing example of the how successful a city could become. To learn more about the history of the automotive industry in the city of Detroit, clink on the link provided. |
World War II
When the United States entered World War II and became a part of the Allied forces, it was in need of mass production of war materials. An important item that was in need of mass production was war tanks. At the time, there was no city better fit to produce war tanks in large quantities than the city of Detroit. Due to the existence of the large automotive facilities that utilized assembly lines, it was an easy adjustment to begin the production of war tanks for the United States Army. This was a huge advantage to the United States war cause as they were able to more effectively produce machines than the other nations which they were fighting. This ability lead the city of Detroit to be thought of as a national asset and even a major financial city. "Detroit was the beating heart. Carmakers built everything: tanks, airplanes, radar units, field kitchens, amphibious vehicles, jeeps, bombsights, and bullets. Billions and billions of bullets. Detroit, with 2 percent of the population, made 10 percent of the tools for war." (Burgess 2015) |