6. The development of the computer and the Internet (middle to late 1900's)

Computers played a key role in virtually every area of American technology. They influenced such wide-ranging areas as cutting-edge scientific and technological research, weaponry, air traffic control, and price reading and inventory control in grocery stores. Computers also affected the daily work environment of millions of office workers. The rapid development of computer networks (the Internet) in the 1990's accelerated the computer's impact and began to alter the nature of personal communications (e-mail) and how goods and services were purchased.

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Terry S. Reynolds is a Professor of History at Michigan Technological University. His Top 10 list focuses on the most significant developments in technology. "No other invention had so wide an influence during the 1900's," says Professor Reynolds of his top pick--the automobile.

1.

The impact of the automobile (throughout the 1900's)

2. The development of the airplane (throughout the 1900's)
3. The spread of mass production methods (throughout the 1900's)
4.

The rise of radio and television (mid-1900's)

5. The development of the transistor and related improvements (middle to late 1900's)
6. The development of the computer and the Internet (middle to late 1900's)
7. The development of atomic weapons and nuclear power (mid-1900's)
8. The development of new materials (throughout the 1900's)
9. The institutionalization of invention (throughout the 1900's)
10. The marriage of technology and science (throughout the 1900's)