Why was steel important to the Second Industrial Revolution?

Steel was critically important to the Second Industrial Revolution because it provided a material that was stronger, more durable, and more versatile than iron, which had been the primary metal used in the First Industrial Revolution. The advancements in the production of steel, particularly the development of the Bessemer process and later the open hearth process, allowed steel to be mass-produced at a lower cost.

The strength and durability of steel made it an ideal material for constructing skyscrapers, bridges, railways, and ships. These structures could now be built bigger, stronger, and able to withstand more weight and stress. This was a key factor in the expansion of transportation and infrastructure during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The widespread use of railways, for example, was made possible by the availability of affordable steel rails that could support the heavier loads of freight and passenger trains.

Furthermore, steel tools and machinery were more effective and longer-lasting than those made of iron, leading to improvements in manufacturing and other industrial processes. This enhanced the productivity of industries and contributed to the acceleration of economic growth during this period.