Ford and Firestone: Key Historical Insights

In 1908, Henry Ford, the son of an Irish immigrant, set out to create an affordable car for the masses, the Model T, which sold for $850. Ford was a master of publicity, using events like auto polo to boost sales. To cut costs, he pioneered mass production and collaborated with industry leaders like Harvey Firestone, who risked his money to start a tire factory. Firestone's pneumatic tires improved car rides, and Ford recognized their quality, leading to a significant tire purchase. Both Ford and Firestone followed in the footsteps of earlier industrialists.

What was the price of the Model T when it was first sold?

• $1,000

• $850

• $500

• $1,200

Which promotional activity did Ford use to boost Model T sales?

• Radio advertisements

• Auto polo

• Car racing

• Parades

What was one of the key strategies Ford used to reduce production costs?

• Hiring more workers

• Reducing worker wages

• Mass production

• Importing cheaper materials

What type of tires did Harvey Firestone start producing?

• Pneumatic tires

• Solid rubber tires

• Plastic tires

• Metal tires

How did Ford confirm the quality of Firestone's tires?

• A 120-day test drive

• A 90-day test drive

• A 60-day test drive

• A 30-day test drive

What was the significance of Ford's purchase of 8,000 tires from Firestone?

• It was a minor purchase for Ford

• It marked the end of their collaboration

• It was the largest tire deal at the time

• It was the first tire purchase by Ford