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Read the paragraphs.

Daniel could see all of Maple Street from his porch, and he marveled at the change. As a boy, he could see only three homes and the general store; now there were six shiny storefronts in his view. Where his pop had once hitched their wagon, his own automobile was parked. And his was not the only Model T in town. Those Detroit factories were filling the streets.

In fact, he was starting to believe Henry Ford’s predictions as he watched his neighbors pack up their automobiles for their Sunday drives. They could probably reach Springfield by noon if they were so inclined, or perhaps they were heading to the country for a picnic. It did not seem to matter where people were going, as long as they were going fast.

What historical reality is represented in this fictional paragraph?

the rapid progress of the American auto industry
the success of American store owners
the development of the American highway system
the increase in American factory wages

2 Answers

6 votes

Final answer:

The paragraphs describe the rapid progress of the American auto industry, with a particular focus on the impact of Henry Ford's assembly line innovation and automobile accessibility, which transformed societal norms, industries, and urban landscapes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The historical reality represented in the paragraphs is the rapid progress of the American auto industry. This transformation is depicted through Daniel's observations, such as the increased number of Model T automobiles and the description of his community going on Sunday drives, made possible by the mass-produced vehicles from factories like those in Detroit. It emphasizes the shift from horse-drawn wagons to automobiles as a primary mode of transport. Furthermore, the text alludes to Henry Ford's influence on the auto industry, particularly with the introduction of the $5 workday, providing workers with the unprecedented ability to afford the cars they built.

During the 1920s, the American economy, social structure, and cities were transformed by the automobile. Industries such as steel, glass, and rubber ballooned, while the demand for oil rose, shaking the foundations of the American economic landscape. With the increase of private automobile ownership, people's lifestyles evolved, and the ecological layout of cities was reconsidered to adapt to the suburban sprawl facilitated by cars. The automobile’s introduction influentially changed the way cities developed and defined their characteristics. This boom led to the creation of automobile suburbs, the need for improved infrastructure, and changes in American culture and society.

User UnitStack
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4 votes

Answer:

the rapid progress of the American auto industry

Step-by-step explanation:

User Ben Fulton
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