From the American System to Mass Production, 1800-1932 by David A. Hounshell

What it is about:

In my view, this is the definitive account of how America's manufacturing was formed in the 19th century and emerged to world dominance in the first half of the 20th century. In the process, it created jobs and brought a material prosperity that we are still enjoying.

The book does not stop with an aseptic description of this phenomenon, but also dedicates the last two chapters to explore the limits, ethos and critics of "Mass production" as practices in the early part of the century.

Why it changed my thinking:

I think that anybody who considers themselves an Industrial Engineer, Manufacturing Practitioner or operations expert needs to read this book. The practices and assumptions that this uniquely american industrial revolution put in place are so pervasive that it is natural to take them for granted and neither question them or understand them well, leading to a lot of flawed decision making and business challenges. I read this book during my doctoral studies and I have come back to it multiple times.

Where to get it: