Which device, invented in 1837 by John Deere, allowed farmers to raise crops on large areas of the Midwest?

The steel plow, invented by John Deere in 1837, revolutionized agriculture in the Midwest. Prior to this innovative tool, farmers faced significant challenges when plowing the tough, sticky soils prevalent in the region. Traditional wooden plows would often become clogged or break under the strain of such dense soil.

Deere's steel plow featured a sharp, polished steel blade that was much more effective in cutting through the resistant earth. This design allowed for smoother and deeper plowing, enabling farmers to cultivate larger areas efficiently. As a result, the widespread use of the steel plow directly contributed to the expansion of farming in the Midwest, facilitating the growth of crop production and making it possible to farm on a much larger scale than before.

In contrast, other options like barbed wire and the telegraph, while important for agricultural or communication development, did not directly influence the ability to farm larger areas. The cotton gin, although transformative for cotton production, was not relevant to the broader agricultural practices in the Midwest. Therefore, the invention of the steel plow stands out as a pivotal advancement for farmers in that region during the 19th century.