Gustavus Franklin Swift was MOST important in establishing which 19th century business empire?

Answer 1

Gustavus Franklin Swift was most important in establishing the meatpacking industry in the 19th century, particularly through his innovations in refrigeration and distribution. He founded Swift & Company in 1855, which became one of the largest meatpacking firms in the United States. His advancements in the use of refrigerated railroad cars revolutionized the way meat was processed and transported, allowing for widespread distribution and consumption of fresh meat nationwide. This contributed significantly to the growth of the American meat industry and the rise of industrial agriculture.