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Cotton Gin

Definition

The cotton gin is a machine that was invented by Eli Whitney in 1793 to separate cotton fibers from their seeds, which significantly sped up the process of producing cotton.

Related terms

Plantation System: This refers to the division of land into smaller units under private ownership. It became popular in the American South during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly for growing cash crops like tobacco and cotton.

Industrial Revolution: A period from about 1760 to sometime between 1820 and 1840 when major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, transport, and technology had a profound effect on socioeconomic conditions starting in Britain then spreading throughout Europe and America.

Slavery: A system where individuals known as slaves are treated as property to be bought, sold and worked forcibly. In America's history it played an integral role in its economic growth especially after invention of Cotton Gin which increased demand for slave labor.

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Practice Questions (17)



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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.