Which technological process significantly advanced steel production during the Second Industrial Revolution?

The Bessemer process was a groundbreaking technique introduced in the 1850s that revolutionized the production of steel. It allowed for the mass production of steel by significantly lowering its cost and increasing its efficiency. This process involved blowing air through molten iron to remove impurities and convert it into steel. The introduction of this method made it possible to produce large quantities of steel rapidly, which was crucial for the expansion of industries such as railroads, construction, and manufacturing during the Second Industrial Revolution.

The increased availability of affordable steel contributed to advancements in infrastructure and technology, including the construction of skyscrapers, bridges, and railways. The Bessemer process played a pivotal role in transforming steel from a luxury material into a commonplace and essential part of industrialization, thereby underpinning much of the economic growth during this period.