Cyrus McCormick
A businessman and inventor of the mechanical reaper
Real World Example
Cyrus McCormick was an American inventor and businessman who created the mechanical reaper, a machine that revolutionized agriculture by making it easier to harvest crops. Before his invention, farmers had to cut grain by hand using sickles or scythes, which was slow and labor-intensive. McCormick's reaper, introduced in the 1830s, significantly increased farm productivity, contributing to the agricultural growth in the North during the early 19th century. His invention paved the way for modern farming equipment, which helps feed the world's population more efficiently today. For example, when you see a combine harvester working in a field, it's a direct descendant of McCormick's reaper, showing how innovation can shape industries and improve daily life.
