Which period is marked by growth in heavy industry such as steel and petroleum production?

The Second Industrial Revolution is characterized by significant advancements in heavy industry, particularly in steel and petroleum production. This period, spanning the late 19th to early 20th century, saw dramatic innovations such as the Bessemer process for steel production, which allowed for mass production of steel, essential for infrastructure and railroads. The development of petroleum refining also emerged during this time, with figures like John D. Rockefeller playing a key role in transforming the oil industry, leading to the rise of vast oil enterprises.

These industries fueled the growth of urban centers and contributed to the overall economic expansion in the United States. Additionally, technological advancements during this period fostered new methods of production, which strengthened the manufacturing sector and facilitated the emergence of new transportation and communication networks. This marked a distinct phase of industrial growth, contrasting with earlier industrial developments. The other choices refer to different themes, such as reform movements and economic crises, which do not focus primarily on advancements in heavy industry like the Second Industrial Revolution does.