Question #5
David E. Nye, in his essay Energy and the Environment, charts the development of human energy systems. The very first one was human muscle and although it did not change environments significantly, it was necessary up until the early 20th century (506). The second system consisted of ships, mills, and domesticated animals; this system allowed for the formation of small urban societies. The third system harnessed water power with large dams and water-powered factories and helped initiate industrialization. The fourth system relied on the steam engine, which ensured year-round manufacturing and transportation capabilities for goods. In the 20th century, America developed electricity, oil, and