Rise of the automobile
The rise of the automobile in the twentieth century marked a significant economic and cultural transformation, particularly in the United States. This period was characterized by technological advancements that made cars symbols of modern life and independence, reshaping societal norms and lifestyles. The introduction of assembly line production by Henry Ford not only made vehicles, particularly the Model T, affordable for many families but also established the automobile as a status symbol. The appeal of driving spurred suburban growth, the establishment of a car-centric culture, and a shift in consumer behavior, with teenagers emerging as key market influencers.
Following World War II, the automotive industry flourished, leading to a proliferation of models and a distinct car culture defined by style and speed. The construction of the Interstate Highway System further facilitated travel and the development of roadside amenities. However, by the twenty-first century, the significance of automobiles began to wane, influenced by changing economic conditions, environmental concerns, and a shift towards urban living and alternative transportation options. While automobile ownership remains prevalent in some regions, particularly in developing economies like China, the landscape of personal mobility is evolving, reflecting broader societal shifts and technological innovations.
Rise of the automobile
The rise of the automobile was an economic and cultural phenomenon that occurred during the twentieth century. Depending in large part upon the development of technology, the automobile was a symbol of modern life and the American spirit of independence. The new freedom afforded by driving encouraged the growth of suburbs, the practice of buying on credit, and the status of teenagers as consumers and trendsetters. For the rest of the century, the automobile increased in popularity and molded the American culture in its own image.
Overview
Henry Ford (1863–1947) was not the only car producer in the early twentieth century, but his company was the first to make use of an efficient assembly line. He was also the first to pay his workers a good wage, which allowed them to buy cars of their own. From the outset, automobiles were status symbols—with people on budgets sometimes choosing them over bathtubs—even at a time when horses and streetcars were the norm in transportation. Automobiles encouraged growth outside of cities, and as urban living gave way to suburbs, cars became necessities—but the country's roadways were still very poor, making it difficult to get from place to place and ensuring a bumpy ride. After a long stint as an icon of American culture, the automobile's importance began to fall during the twenty-first century, as younger consumers reconsidered transportation and city living.
A Car in Every Garage
The first widely successful automobile was Ford's Model T. Assembly-line techniques sped up production and lowered costs, making the car accessible to many working families. By 1923, Ford was selling two million cars a year, and by 1927, it had sold more than fifteen million "Tin Lizzies," as they came to be called. Ford also increased wages, even though most of his workers were not highly skilled. But the work was so repetitious and unfulfilling that many workers quit after a short time. Ford reasoned that they would be more likely to stay if the pay were significantly higher than they could get elsewhere, and he was right.
Other car makers were designing stylish cars that appealed to a public growing tired of the Model T. Ford was finally forced to redesign his automobile and offered the Model A. Everyday transportation was not the function of these cars—they were mainly used for "touring," or riding through the countryside with the family for simple enjoyment. But people loved the feeling of owning such a modern, powerful machine. Americans also loved the sensation of speed, in spite of the dust that came with it.
Cars in Pop Culture
Cars began as status symbols, and high demand increased the number of car makers and the variety of models. After World War II, during which new cars were unavailable, the economy boomed and so did Americans' confidence in the future. People flocked to dealerships to replace their worn and outdated automobiles. Family cars, such as station wagons, appealed to couples with growing families, while sports cars and luxury sedans drew those with money or a desire for speed. But with easy credit available, almost anyone could own a vehicle, and by the 1950s, America was developing a distinct car culture. Manufacturers fought competition and fed the hunger for style with new models every year and a variety of accessories and options. Chrome and increasingly large tailfins marked the styles of the 1950s, which were marketed to men, who generally made the financial decisions for the family.
Obtaining a driver's license became a rite of passage for American teenagers, and many took after-school jobs, so they could afford their own cars. Songs, movies, and television shows reflected the importance of cars, especially to young people. Hot rods and muscle cars took center stage in the Beach Boys' "Little Deuce Coupe" and Ronny and the Daytonas' "GTO." Television created programs featuring memorable automobiles such as the Batmobile (1965–68); the General Lee, a Dodge Charger (1979–1985); and Kitt, a car with artificial intelligence featured on the television series Knight Rider (1982–86). Fast cars, high-speed chases, and thrilling stunt driving became standard fare in Hollywood movies.
Social and Geographic Changes
As the automobile rose in popularity, it inspired the construction of suburban developments; each little house had a garage as a prominent design feature. Ownership of a car became a necessity rather than a desirable option. In the 1950s, President Dwight D. Eisenhower authorized the federal Interstate Highway System, which, once completed, allowed citizens to take their increasingly stylish and roadworthy cars on long trips to other states or even across the country. The new driving culture led to the development of diners, motels, and gas stations along the new highways and the invention of shopping malls, drive-in movies, and fast food outlets.
Decline in Automobile Culture
By the twenty-first century, the automobile had begun to decline. Style no longer drove sales, as cars in each class became almost indistinguishable from one another. Fewer young people applied for licenses and by 2013 the number of miles driven per person was down to 1995 levels. A struggling economy and high gasoline prices contributed to the decline, but the rise of telecommuting, interaction via social media, car-pooling applications on smart phones, and the use of commuter vans also cut down on the need for automobile ownership. Awareness of environmental damage caused by emissions encouraged ride sharing, bike-sharing, and a return to public transportation. Some people moved back to the city to be near jobs and public transportation. Even Bill Ford, executive chairman of the Ford Motor Company and great-grandson of Henry Ford, adjusted his outlook regarding the automobile. He defined Ford not as a car manufacturer, but as a "personal mobility" company. However, on the other side of the world, in the rapidly developing economy of China, the sale of personal automobiles was growing by 10 percent a year.
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