Which invention is attributed to Eli Whitney in 1792?

Eli Whitney is credited with inventing the cotton gin in 1792. This machine played a crucial role in the cotton industry by drastically improving the efficiency of cotton processing. Prior to the invention of the cotton gin, separating cotton fibers from its seeds was a labor-intensive task that limited production. Whitney's invention mechanized this process, allowing for much faster and larger-scale processing of cotton. This innovation not only boosted the profitability of cotton farming but also contributed significantly to the economy, particularly in the Southern United States, shaping the agricultural landscape and influencing trade during that era. The impact of the cotton gin extended beyond just the cotton industry; it also had far-reaching social and economic implications, including the entrenchment of slavery as cotton became a major cash crop.