The basis of Philadelphia's economy has changed substantially through time. In the 17th and 18th centuries Philadelphia grew as a major Atlantic seaport, receiving, processing, and shipping flour, meat, and forest products. A dozen shipbuilders operated in 1754 along with other maritime businesses including sail manufacturers, chandleries for selling boating equipment, and ropewalks for the production of rope.
In the 19th century, the value of manufacturing increasingly surpassed commercial shipping. Grain milling was important, along with cotton and wool processing. By the latter part of the century, textile and carpet factories, iron foundries, steel mills, shipbuilders, and saw manufacturing plants dominated a highly diverse economy. Although much textile production moved to the South beginning in the early 20th century, new industries such as chemicals and food processing sustained the economy until the hard times brought by the Great Depression of the 1930s caused a general decline. Despite the revival of metal manufacturing during and after World War II, the postwar era witnessed the virtual elimination of Philadelphia's once profitable manufacturing sector.
Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2001 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. Philadelphia Information info
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