Eli Whitney (cotton gin inventor)

Eli Whitney was an American inventor best known for creating the cotton gin in 1793. The cotton gin is a machine that quickly separates cotton fibers from their seeds, a process that was previously very labor-intensive. This invention significantly increased cotton production efficiency, helping to meet the growing demand for textiles. Whitney's innovation also contributed to the expansion of slavery in the southern United States, as plantation owners needed more workers to harvest the increased cotton output. His work is considered a pivotal development in American industrial history, showcasing the impact of technology on agriculture and society.