Ken Alder

Ken Alder, a Northwestern University historian, explores the fascinating intersection of gunmaking and mass production in the U.S. He delves into the significance of the Colt 1851 Navy Revolver as a pioneering mass-produced technology. Alder highlights Colt's international acclaim, the origins of interchangeable parts, and the impact of precise firearms on warfare, particularly in the Crimean War. He also examines how military needs catalyzed advancements that shaped modern manufacturing, shedding light on the broader implications of these historical innovations.