The Great Lakes: Catalysts of Industrial Evolution

Abstract

The Great Lakes: Catalysts of Industrial Evolution demonstrates the growth of modern industries and processes in the Midwest during the industrial revolution of the nineteenth century. The development of these industries would not have been possible within the region without a vast array of resources provided by the Great Lakes. Each comprehensive illustration defines the lake wherein the most development of each industry took place. First, Superior outlines the region’s vast mining production of raw and precious materials, and Michigan illustrates the development of the fur trade and interaction with indigenous peoples. Huron demonstrates the timber logging empire of old growth forests, while Erie describes the region’s heavy industrialization and consequential pollution. Finally, Ontario explores the expanse of the maritime shipping industry after the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway.