Essay Title:

To what extent did Andrew Carnegie contribute to the rise of American industry?

Introduction Thesis:

Outline the main argument that will be explored, such as Carnegie's significant role in expanding steel production and shaping industrial America.

Point: Carnegie's use of vertical integration and innovation in steel manufacturing.

Evidence: Carnegie invested in mines, railroads, and factories to control all aspects of production, reducing costs and increasing efficiency.

Source: > 'Carnegie’s strategy of controlling every stage of steel production allowed him to dominate the industry and lower prices.' Provenance: Excerpt from industrial history textbook, 2020.

Point: Carnegie’s contribution to America’s economic expansion through steel.

Evidence: The rapid growth of steel production under Carnegie supported infrastructure projects, urbanization, and industrial development.

Source: > 'Carnegie’s steel enabled the building of railways, bridges, and skyscrapers, transforming America's landscape.' Provenance: Industrial history journal, 2019.

Counter-Argument:

Some critics argue that Carnegie’s business practices led to poor working conditions and widened economic inequalities.

Source: > 'Carnegie’s pursuit of profit often sacrificed worker safety and fair wages.' Provenance: Labour history report, 2018.

Conclusion:

Summarise the main points, weighing Carnegie’s contributions against the criticisms, and state whether his impact was ultimately positive or negative for America’s industrial development.