How inventions transform history (for better and for worse) - Kenneth C. Davis
May 21, 2026•8 min
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Episode description
View full lesson: http://ed.ted.com/lessons/how-inventions-change-history-for-better-and-for-worse-kenneth-c-davis
Invented in 1793, the cotton gin changed history for good and bad. By allowing one field hand to do the work of 10, it powered a new industry that brought wealth and power to the American South -- but, tragically, it also multiplied and prolonged the use of slave labor. Kenneth C. Davis lauds innovation, while warning us of unintended consequences.
Lesson by Kenneth C. Davis, animation by Sunni Brown.
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