Henry Ford

Henry Ford was an influential American industrialist and the founder of the Ford Motor Company, born on July 30, 1863, in Dearborn, Michigan. He is best known for revolutionizing the automobile industry by introducing assembly line production techniques, which significantly lowered costs and made cars affordable for the average American. His most famous vehicle, the Model T, was launched in 1908 and became immensely popular.

Ford's innovations extended beyond manufacturing; he also implemented the $5 workday in 1914, which doubled the average wage for factory workers at the time. This move not only improved worker satisfaction but also aimed to create a consumer base that could afford to buy the cars they produced.

In addition to his business achievements, Ford was a controversial figure due to his views on various social issues, including his opposition to labor unions and his promotion of anti-Semitic propaganda through his newspaper, The Dearborn Independent.

Ford passed away on April 7, 1947, but his legacy continues to influence modern manufacturing and labor practices. His impact on American culture and industry remains significant today.