Henry Ford

Henry Ford was an American industrialist and the founder of the Ford Motor Company. His innovative approach to manufacturing made cars accessible to ordinary people, revolutionized industry and caused the explosion of mass production. He doubled his workers’ salaries, introduced the division of labor and indirectly caused the development of mass consumption. In just 50 minutes, you will find out how his actions shaped manufacturing processes and understand his profound influence on the business world.

This straightforward and informative book provides a thorough discussion of the key moments in Ford’s illustrious business career, including the development of the Ford Model T, the moving assembly line and the rise of Fordism. It also features a full biography, a valuable introduction to the economic context and an evaluation of the impact of Ford’s inventions, giving you all the essential information about this American business tycoon.

About Henry Ford

Born on 30 July 1863 on a farm, Henry Ford was the eldest in a family of six children. He proved to be passionate about machines from a young age: by the age of 15, he was already able to put together and repair a steam engine. He worked at a series of companies, including the Michigan Car Company, before beginning his own.  The Ford Motor Company began operating in November 1902.

This clear and accessible 42-page book is structured as follows:

• Introduction to Henry Ford
• Context
  • The Industrial Revolution and the move towards progress
  • The invention of the automobile
• Biography of Henry Ford
  • A love for machines
  • Return to the farm and his electric phase
  • First steps in the automobile industry
  • The story of the Ford Motor Company
  • Highly diversified activities
• Working towards a universal car for everyone
  • Five years of experimentation
  • The launch of the Model T
  • Rationalised production
  • The moving assembly line
  • The five-dollar daily wage
• Impact of Henry Ford
  • A new way of life
  • A revolutionary production method
  • The beginnings of mass consumption
• Summary