Steel Becomes Huge Industry: The Industrial Revolution in America (Grade 5-6)

The story of steel begins with the Industrial Revolution. Before the Industrial Revolution, steel was a very expensive material. It was made by hand, and only the wealthy could afford it.

During the Industrial Revolution, new technologies were developed that made it possible to produce steel more cheaply and quickly. These new technologies included the Bessemer process and the open-hearth furnace.

The Bessemer process was invented by Henry Bessemer in 1856. This process involved blowing air into molten iron. The oxygen in the air combined with the impurities in the iron, causing them to burn off. This left behind pure iron, which could then be made into steel.

Steel Becomes a Huge Industry | The Industrial Revolution in America Grade 6 | Children's American History

by Ben Kane

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	41308 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	72 pages

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The open-hearth furnace was invented by William Siemens in 1868. This process involved heating iron ore and limestone in a furnace. The limestone removed the impurities from the iron ore, leaving behind pure iron. This iron could then be made into steel.

The Bessemer process and the open-hearth furnace made it possible to produce steel cheaply and quickly. This led to a huge increase in the use of steel. Steel was used to build bridges, railroads, and buildings. It was also used to make machines and tools.

The Industrial Revolution transformed America into an industrial powerhouse. Steel played a major role in this transformation. Steel made it possible to build the infrastructure and machinery that was needed to power the nation's economy.

The Steel Industry Today

The steel industry is still a major part of the American economy. Today, steel is used to make a wide variety of products, including cars, appliances, and construction materials. The steel industry employs millions of people and generates billions of dollars in revenue each year.

The Future of Steel

The future of steel is bright. As the world's population continues to grow, the demand for steel will continue to increase. Steel is a versatile material that can be used to make a wide variety of products. It is also a strong and durable material that can last for centuries.

Steel is essential to our modern world. It is used to build the infrastructure, machines, and tools that we rely on every day. The steel industry is a major part of the American economy, and it is poised for continued growth in the years to come.

Activities

1. What are some of the ways that steel is used today?
2. How did the Industrial Revolution change the way that steel was produced?
3. What are some of the challenges facing the steel industry today?
4. What do you think the future of steel holds?

Glossary

• Bessemer process: A process for making steel by blowing air into molten iron.
• Industrial Revolution: A period of rapid industrial growth that began in the late 18th century.
• Open-hearth furnace: A process for making steel by heating iron ore and limestone in a furnace.
• Steel: A strong and durable metal made from iron.

For More Information

• The American Iron and Steel Institute
• The World Steel Association

Image

[Image of a steel mill]

Alt Text

A steel mill is a factory where steel is produced.

Steel Becomes a Huge Industry | The Industrial Revolution in America Grade 6 | Children's American History

by Ben Kane

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	41308 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	72 pages

FREE