Question

which development occurred as part of the second industrial revolution in the late 1800s?
a. the decline in steel production due to falling international demand
b. the rise of the united states and germany as industrial powers
c. the start of the commercial revolution in great britain
d. the development of industrial machines that could run on water power

Explanation:

• Option A: During the Second Industrial Revolution, steel production increased, not declined. New processes like the Bessemer process made steel production more efficient and widespread.
• Option B: The Second Industrial Revolution (late 1800s - early 1900s) saw the United States and Germany emerge as major industrial powers. The U.S. had abundant natural resources, a large domestic market, and was able to invest in new technologies like electricity and the internal combustion engine. Germany also made significant advancements in chemistry (e.g., synthetic dyes) and engineering.
• Option C: The Commercial Revolution started in the 16th - 18th centuries, long before the Second Industrial Revolution. It was characterized by the growth of trade, the emergence of new business practices (like joint - stock companies), and the expansion of European overseas empires.
• Option D: Industrial machines running on water power were more prominent in the First Industrial Revolution. The Second Industrial Revolution was marked by the use of new power sources such as electricity and petroleum - based fuels (for internal combustion engines).

Answer:

B. The rise of the United States and Germany as industrial powers