Lowell's Innovations in Textile Industry

In 1813, Francis Cabot Lowell toured Europe, learning about English manufacturing. He envisioned a self-contained textile mill in Massachusetts, utilizing local water power. Lowell proposed an integrated manufacturing process to reduce costs and increase profits. He planned to improve English technology with local expertise and recruit farm girls for labor.

What was the primary reason the English felt comfortable sharing their industrial secrets with Lowell?

• They believed Lowell was not interested in textiles.

• They were unaware of Lowell's business background.

• They were seeking investment from American businessmen.

• They wanted to promote their technology abroad.

What natural resource did Lowell see as underutilized in Massachusetts?

• Iron ore

• Water power

• Timber

• Coal

What was Lowell's innovative idea for the textile industry?

• To build multiple small mills

• To create a self-contained factory

• To import English machines directly

• To focus solely on spinning yarn

What was a major challenge Lowell anticipated in competing with the English?

• Inferior technology

• Higher labor costs

• Lack of raw materials

• Limited market access

How did Lowell plan to address the manpower needs for his factory?

• By offering higher wages than farms

• By using automated machines

• By employing local farm girls

• By hiring skilled male workers from England