Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

In which field did Andrew Carnegie primarily make his mark?

1. Textile industry

2. Steel industry

3. Railroad industry

4. Automobile industry

The correct answer is: Steel industry

Andrew Carnegie primarily made his mark in the steel industry, where he significantly influenced both production and business practices. His most notable achievement was founding the Carnegie Steel Company, which became the largest and most profitable steel company in the United States during the late 19th century. Under his leadership, the company adopted innovative production techniques, such as the Bessemer process, which allowed for the mass production of steel and improved efficiency. Carnegie's success in the steel industry not only contributed to the growth of American infrastructure, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, but he also became a prominent figure in philanthropy, using his wealth to promote education and public libraries. The incorrect options relate to industries where Carnegie either had minimal involvement or did not operate. For instance, while he did interact with the railroad industry, particularly in his early career, his primary legacy is not in railroads but rather in establishing dominance in steel production. The textile and automobile industries were also unrelated to his main endeavors, as they progressed in different contexts and timeframes compared to Carnegie's focus on steel.