Thomas Blanchard
Thomas Blanchard was an American inventor whose patents contributed to the development of the mass production system.
Synopsis
Thomas Blanchard was born on June 24, 1788, in Sutton, Massachusetts. As a boy, he invented an apple parer and tack-making machine for his brother's factory. Later, he invented or developed key mass-production techniques, including the assembly line and interchangeable parts. Blanchard also produced several successful designs for steamboats before the introduction of railroads. He died in 1864.
