This fascinating book documents the history and achievements of the American textile industry, particularly in the production of cotton and woolen fabrics, from the colonial period to the early 20th century. It provides a detailed account of the technological, economic, social, and environmental factors that contributed to the growth and decline of this vital industry, and its impact on American society and culture. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.