Some inventions were improvements on older machinery. We will look at eleven inventions of the 18th century by looking at sites that discuss inventions and their creators.

The 18th century was a time of innovation. The industrial revolution would not be possible if it were not for the men who created the inventions to make life easier and more productive. The inventions of the 18th century made the modern world that we live in possible.

Some inventions were improvements on older machinery. This week we will look at eleven inventions of the 18th century by looking at sites that discuss inventions and their creators.

1. The Cotton Gin
   Invented by Eli Whitney around 1790 this machine revolutionized the cotton industry of the South.
2. The Farmers Almanac
   Benjamin Banneker first published the Farmers Almanac in 1792. Banneker was also the first black American inventor.
3. The Franklin stove
   This invention by Ben Franklin was the first heater that could still heat a room long after the fire was extinguished.
4. Power loom
   Developed by Edmund Cartwright in 1785 this machine revolutionized the weaving industry by automating the weaving process.
5. Watt's Steam Engine
   Watt did not invent the steam engine but he improved its operation by making an engine that cooled the used steam in a condenser separate from the main cylinder.
6. Optical Telegraph
   The optical telegraph was used for long-distance communication. This particular invention was the first dependable means of long-distance communication.
7. Jefferson's Moldboard Plow
   Thomas Jefferson improved the plow by designing a better moldboard that lasted longer. This is but one of many of his inventions.
8. The Lightning Rod
   Benjamin Franklin invented this device to help prevent damage to buildings by lightning strikes.
9. The First Submarine
   David Bushnell invented the first submarine. Called the turtle, this craft was first used during the American Revolution.