Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

Who is credited with inventing the mechanical reaper?

1. John Deere

2. Eli Whitney

3. George Washington Carver

4. Cyrus McCormick

The correct answer is: Cyrus McCormick

Cyrus McCormick is credited with inventing the mechanical reaper, which revolutionized agriculture in the 19th century. Developed in the 1830s, McCormick's reaper dramatically increased the efficiency of harvesting crops such as wheat by mechanizing the process. This invention allowed farmers to harvest grain much more quickly and with fewer laborers than manual methods, thus transforming agricultural practices and contributing to the rise of commercial farming in the United States. The mechanical reaper had significant impacts on productivity and the economy, as it facilitated the expansion of farming into previously unproductive areas and supported the growth of larger agribusinesses. McCormick's innovations not only changed how crops were harvested but also represented a broader shift towards mechanization in the agricultural sector, setting the stage for future advancements in farming technology.