Final answer:
The correct word to fill in the blank is 'Moreover,' which adds to the previous point about the challenges of early cars. The automobile, beginning with Benz's patent in 1886, had a profound impact on city expansion, business, and industry, reshaping society and the economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
By today's standards, early automobiles were indeed challenging to operate and uncomfortable. A driver had to hand-crank the engine to start it, risking injury, such as a broken thumb if the crank kicked back. Moreover, early cars lacked a covered top, exposing riders to the elements, such as dust and dirt from unpaved roads, making the experience quite unpleasant.
When the gasoline-fueled automobile was patented in 1886 by Karl Benz, it marked the beginning of a significant transformation in transportation and urban development. The popularity of the automobile led to the expansion of cities and suburbs, a surge in demand for fuel and materials like rubber, and the creation of new businesses to cater to the needs of car owners. The automobile industry also contributed to changes in urban landscapes, including increased traffic, noise, and pollution from exhaust emissions.