Which statement correctly describes electrification of manufacturing by 1914 and 1929?

Which statement correctly describes electrification of manufacturing by 1914 and 1929?

• A. It electrified to 70% by 1914 and 30% by 1929.
• B. It electrified to 30% by 1914 and 70% by 1929.
• C. It never exceeded 50%.
• D. It was fully electrified by 1930.

Answer: (B)

Electrification of manufacturing rose rapidly in the United States during the early 20th century as electric motors and power grids expanded and factories sought greater efficiency. By 1914, roughly 30% of manufacturing plants were powered by electricity, and by 1929 that share climbed to about 70%. This big jump reflects the move away from traditional power sources like steam and the widespread adoption of electric power in industry, driven by cheaper energy, better motors, and the growing reach of electrical infrastructure. The other options don’t fit the trend: one reverses the timing, suggesting high electrification early and a drop later; another claims it never exceeded 50%, which contradicts the 1929 figure; and another implies full electrification by 1930, ignoring further growth after that date. So the statement that matches the historical pattern is about 30% by 1914 and 70% by 1929.

Electrification of manufacturing rose rapidly in the United States during the early 20th century as electric motors and power grids expanded and factories sought greater efficiency. By 1914, roughly 30% of manufacturing plants were powered by electricity, and by 1929 that share climbed to about 70%. This big jump reflects the move away from traditional power sources like steam and the widespread adoption of electric power in industry, driven by cheaper energy, better motors, and the growing reach of electrical infrastructure. The other options don’t fit the trend: one reverses the timing, suggesting high electrification early and a drop later; another claims it never exceeded 50%, which contradicts the 1929 figure; and another implies full electrification by 1930, ignoring further growth after that date. So the statement that matches the historical pattern is about 30% by 1914 and 70% by 1929.