What is a dramaturgy blog?

This blog will serve as a source of research and information for the cast and crew of GPAC's Ragtime. Each post will address specific topics or areas of interest presented in the show. Dramaturgy is meant to highlight the historical, social, political, and economical context of the play as well as answer any questions presented by the cast and crew. Instead of printing packets of information for the cast, this online blog will allow me to continuously share research, pictures, video, music, etc - without wasting any paper! The blog will constantly be updated and under construction so feel free to email me about specific topics: JoanMarieHurwit@gmail.com.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

The REALs of a Dream: Henry Ford

Henry Ford was born July 30, 1863 and grew up on a prosperous family farm in Michigan. Henry enjoyed a childhood typical of the rural nineteenth century, spending days in a one-room school and doing farm chores. At an early age, he showed an interest in mechanical things and a dislike for farm work.

In 1879, 16 year old Ford left home for the nearby city of Detroit to work as an apprentice machinist.  After several years, Henry divided his time between operating or repairing steam engines and over-hauling his father's farm implements. Upon his marriage in 1888, Henry supported himself by running a sawmill.

Ford became a prominent American industrialist, the founder of the Ford Motor Company, and sponsor of the development of the assembly line for  mass production. His introduction of the Model T automobile revolutionized transportation and American industry. He became one of the richest and best-known people in the world and is credited with "Fordism:":mass production of inexpensive goods coupled with high wages for workers. Ford had a global vision, with consumerism as the key to peace.

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