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CHAPTER ONE
How the Automobile
Shaped America
In 1908, Henry Ford started production of the Model T. Since
then, owning a car has become a pinnacle for achieving “the American
dream.” Millions of households have purchased cars in pursuit of
convenience, freedom, social well-being, and prosperity. Except during
an economic slump, the number of cars sold has increased every year.
In 2017, around 17.5 million new vehicles were sold to Americans.
With an average selling price of around $35,000, this represents
roughly $600 billion of economic activity.
One of the biggest improvements to cars is the types of metals used
to make them. The metals are much stronger and can withstand more
force. Many cars now have large “crumple zones” on the front and
rear bumpers. These zones absorb the energy in a collision, making
the car safer in an accident.
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