Henry Ford is widely recognized for popularizing the assembly line in manufacturing, significantly transforming industrial production. In 1913, Ford implemented this system in his automobile factories, which improved efficiency and lowered costs. By introducing standardized parts and a moving conveyor belt, the assembly line allowed for mass production, making automobiles affordable for the average consumer. This innovation not only revolutionized the automotive industry but also set a precedent for manufacturing processes across various sectors, leading to increased productivity and the economic boom of the 1920s. Ford's assembly line concept is still influential in modern production practices today.