Whether you call it a car, truck, van or SUV, the automobile plays a crucial role in our society. Its advancement has changed the way we live, work, play and travel. There are positive and negative effects of automobiles on our society.
The first automobiles were steam powered and did not have windshields or rearview mirrors. They did not have seat belts or turn signals. They were also considered to be a luxury at the time.
As the need for cars grew, people began to take more pride in their vehicles. They wanted the fastest cars and the prettiest ones. They wanted to impress their friends.
As more people started to own automobiles, the cost of producing them fell. The use of the assembly line was also an important factor in lowering production costs.
The demand for automobiles in the United States rose in the early twentieth century. This was largely a result of higher per capita income. The demand for automobiles sparked an entire industry dedicated to automobile parts. The automotive industry also provided new employment opportunities for Americans.
By the mid 1920s, automobiles were beginning to affect the daily lives of Americans. Suburban growth required fast and convenient transportation. Women were freed from domestic roles and could pursue jobs outside the home. In the 1960s, an urban housewife needed a car to run her errands and to pick up her children from school.
Cars can also cause problems with our health. They produce harmful fumes called greenhouse gases. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, resulting in air pollution.