Which innovation is associated with the development of the modern assembly line?

The development of the modern assembly line is most closely associated with Henry Ford's mass production techniques for automobiles. In the early 20th century, Ford revolutionized manufacturing by introducing the assembly line approach to production, which allowed for the efficient and rapid assembly of vehicles. This method minimized the time taken to produce a car, making automobiles more affordable and accessible to the general public.

Ford's techniques involved breaking down the assembly process into simple, repetitive tasks that could be performed by workers at various stations along a moving conveyor belt. This not only increased productivity but also standardized the production process, which contributed to a consistent level of quality in the final products. The assembly line concept became a model for various industries beyond automotive manufacturing, demonstrating the significant impact of Ford’s innovations on modern industrial practices.

While other innovations, such as James Watt's steam engine, Thomas Edison’s electric light bulb, and George Stephenson's locomotive, played crucial roles in the broader context of the Industrial Revolution, they do not specifically relate to the assembly line's development or its subsequent influence on mass production techniques.