General Electric

Definition

General Electric (GE) is a multinational conglomerate founded in 1892 that operates in various sectors including power, renewable energy, aviation, and healthcare. As one of the largest and most diversified industrial corporations, GE played a pivotal role in shaping the American consumer economy and suburbanization through its innovative technologies and mass production techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. General Electric was instrumental in the development of electrical appliances and technologies that became essential in American households, such as refrigerators and washing machines.
2. The company's advertising campaigns in the 1920s and 1930s promoted consumer goods, contributing to a culture of consumerism that defined the era.
3. GE's commitment to innovation led to significant advancements in aviation technology, particularly during World War II, solidifying its place in both military and civilian markets.
4. The establishment of suburban communities was supported by GE's production of home appliances that made life easier and more convenient for families moving to these new areas.
5. By the mid-20th century, GE had become a symbol of American industry and innovation, influencing not just the economy but also social trends as people embraced modern conveniences.

Review Questions

• How did General Electric's innovations contribute to the rise of consumer culture in America?
  • General Electric played a significant role in fostering consumer culture through its development of household appliances that transformed daily life. The introduction of products like refrigerators and washing machines made tasks easier, leading to increased consumer spending. Furthermore, GE's marketing strategies in the early 20th century effectively promoted these products as essential for modern living, encouraging households to invest in convenience and comfort.
• In what ways did General Electric influence suburbanization during the mid-20th century?
  • General Electric's production of appliances facilitated the growth of suburban communities by providing the necessary technologies that made suburban living appealing. As families moved to suburbs, they sought out conveniences that GE products offered, such as efficient cooking appliances and home entertainment systems. This shift not only shaped consumer habits but also led to the expansion of housing developments designed around modern amenities provided by companies like GE.
• Evaluate the broader impact of General Electric on both the American economy and social structures during the post-World War II era.
  • General Electric's influence extended beyond mere industrial success; it played a crucial role in reshaping the American economy by promoting mass production and consumerism. The company's innovations allowed for economic growth through job creation and technological advancement. Socially, GE helped define the American lifestyle in the post-war period, as families increasingly embraced suburban living fueled by access to modern conveniences. This transformation contributed to changes in social dynamics, including shifts in family roles and an emphasis on home-centered activities.

Related terms

Mass Production: The manufacturing of large quantities of standardized products, often using assembly lines, which significantly reduced costs and increased efficiency.

Consumerism:

The cultural phenomenon that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts, particularly in post-World War II America.

Suburbs: Residential areas located on the outskirts of a city, which expanded rapidly in the mid-20th century as more Americans sought homes outside urban centers.