The Industrial Revolution in America — Reading Comprehension

The Industrial Revolution in America began in the late 1700s. This was a time when new machines and ideas changed how people lived and worked. Before this, most people made things by hand in their homes or small shops. Life was hard, and work was slow.

In the 1790s, Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin. This invention helped clean cotton much faster than by hand. Soon, more inventions appeared. The steam engine was an important machine. It powered trains and boats, making it easier to move goods and people.

Because of these new machines, factories grew in cities like Lowell, Massachusetts. Many people left farms and moved to cities to work in the factories. Families, including women and children, worked long hours for little pay. Life in the city was busy and crowded, but people hoped for a better future.

Some inventors said, "We must use our minds to solve problems." Their work made life easier for many Americans. The Industrial Revolution helped America grow stronger and more connected. Trains and steamboats could now cross the country, bringing people and goods together.

This time also brought challenges. Workers asked for better pay and safer places to work. Over time, new laws helped protect them.

Interesting Fact: The first American factory was built in 1790 by Samuel Slater, who used plans from England.

Who invented the cotton gin?

Which city had many new factories?

What powered early trains and boats?

Why did people move to cities?

How did inventions help America?

What challenge did workers face?

The cotton gin was invented in 1793. True or false?

What is a factory?