Final answer:
Technological innovations such as railroads, steel plows, and windmills revolutionized Texas's economy during the 19th century by improving transportation, agricultural productivity, and water access.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the late 19th century, the economy of Texas was significantly transformed by the introduction of railroads, windmills, and the steel plow. These technological advancements reshaped the agricultural sector and spurred economic growth. Railroads facilitated the expansion of markets and the efficient transportation of goods, including Texas's vast mineral resources. This enabled Texas to export its resources to a broader market, stimulating business and industrial activity.
The steel plow, an innovation that allowed for more efficient turning of tough prairie soil, significantly increased agricultural productivity. It opened up the challenging Texas land for large-scale farming, which was previously limited by the difficulty of cultivating the hard soil with wooden plows. The increased productivity contributed to a surplus in agricultural output, driving economic growth.
In a similar vein, the introduction of windmills revolutionized water access in Texas. Windmills provided a reliable water source for irrigation and livestock, which was essential in a state characterized by harsh climatic conditions. With improved water access, farming and ranching productivity increased, supporting the sustenance of larger herds of cattle and expanding crop production.