What did Henry Bessemer invent?


Quick Answer

Henry Bessemer invented a steel production process that led to the Industrial Revolution. His invention allowed for the large-scale production of steel while taking out the impurities.

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Full Answer

Bessemer had other inventions including a group of steam-powered machines. He also invented a sugar cane crushing machine. Bessemer's career as an inventor began when he invented a forgery-proof technology that prevented the falsification of the official authorization stamp of the British government. The stamp was placed on numerous documents, including deeds. The forgeries resulted in lost revenue for the government. Bessemer's invention changed the stamp to a seal that was embossed into the fibers of documents. As a result, forgers were unable to duplicate the process and could not bypass the government stamp.

In exchange for his invention, the British government offered him a job in the Stamps Office. While working there, Bessemer discovered a more cost-efficient method of stamping documents. In return for his trouble, his supervisor took his idea and fired him. He learned to ensure that all of his ideas were legally protected. Years later, Bessemer sought payment for his idea. He was compensated by the British government with an honorary knighthood. For his work on the steel manufacturing process, he made a small fortune.

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