The historical figure credited with popularizing the use of the assembly line in manufacturing is Henry Ford. Ford revolutionized the manufacturing process by introducing the assembly line technique in the early 20th century, significantly increasing production efficiency and lowering costs. This system allowed workers to specialize in specific tasks, which enhanced speed and output, particularly in the automobile industry. Ford’s implementation of this method facilitated the mass production of affordable cars, most notably the Model T, thus transforming not only the automotive industry but also manufacturing practices across various sectors and contributing to the rise of consumer culture in the U.S.