What device was created to clean short fiber cotton that grew better inland?

The cotton gin was invented to address the challenges of processing short fiber cotton, particularly as it gained popularity in inland regions. Prior to the cotton gin, separating the fibers from the seeds of cotton was an extremely labor-intensive process. The invention of the cotton gin mechanized this separation, making it significantly more efficient. This device could rapidly clean the cotton fibers, removing seeds and other impurities, which allowed for a greater volume of cotton to be processed in less time.

The cotton gin's impact was profound; it not only boosted the productivity of cotton farming but also contributed to the expansion of cotton plantations, particularly in the southern United States. This innovation played a crucial role in the economy and the agriculture of the region, ultimately fostering the growth of the cotton industry.