Which resource experienced widespread growth during the Second Industrial Revolution?

The resource that experienced widespread growth during the Second Industrial Revolution is steel. This period, which roughly spanned from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, was characterized by significant advancements in manufacturing and industrial techniques.

Steel became increasingly important due to its versatility and strength, which made it ideal for a multitude of applications including construction, railways, machinery, and tools. The introduction of processes such as the Bessemer process revolutionized steel production by making it more efficient and cost-effective, leading to a dramatic increase in steel output.

This surge in steel production facilitated the expansion of industries and infrastructure, including skyscrapers and bridges, which were made possible by steel's superior properties compared to iron and other materials. Furthermore, the rise of the automobile industry and the need for durable materials in manufacturing further contributed to steel's importance during this era.

While coal and iron were still significant during the Second Industrial Revolution, it was steel that truly symbolized the technological advancements and industrial growth of the time. Textiles, although historically important, did not experience the same level of transformative growth during this period as steel did.