Question

cotton as a percentage of us exports
7.1% 1800
32.0% 1820
51.6% 1840
57.5% 1860
the cotton gin was introduced in 1793. what was the effect of this invention in the us?
production of cotton decreased by 32% between 1800 and 1820.
production and export of cotton decreased by 50% between 1800 and 1860.
production and export of cotton initially increased, then began to decline.
the export of cotton increased by 50% between 1800 and 1860.

Explanation:

1. Analyze each option:

• First option: The data shows cotton's export percentage increased from 7.1% (1800) to 32.0% (1820), so production didn't decrease. Eliminate.
• Second option: From 7.1% (1800) to 57.5% (1860), it's an increase, not a decrease. Eliminate.
• Third option: The percentages (7.1%→32.0%→51.6%→57.5%) show a continuous increase, not a decline after an initial increase. Eliminate.
• Fourth option: Calculate the increase from 1800 (7.1%) to 1860 (57.5%). The increase is about 50.4 percentage points, approximately a 50% increase (since 7.1*8≈56.8, close to 57.5). So this option matches.

Answer:

The export of cotton increased by 50% between 1800 and 1860.