THE UNIFORMITY OF GOODS
Starting in the nineteenth century, there was a movement toward uniformity in American production. Manufacturers tried to provide a common material experience so that all Americans could enjoy goods that were similar in style, quality, and price. Manufacturers expanded their production capabilities to regularize production and produce nearly uniform goods. The uniformity of products, or the belief that products were similar even when they were not, generally satisfied customers. Uniformity was achieved in several ways: through machine-based production, the identification of product type, the creation of brand names, and the establishment of standard sizes.
听力材料：
Speaking of the uniformity of goods, let me say something about the clothing industry—men’s clothing in particular. The greatest factor in the formation of the industry was the Civil War, which created a huge demand for uniforms for the soldiers. The need to outfit an army prompted the government to specify measurements to the manufacturers, and this led to the standardization of sizes. Then, after the war, there was a great demand for civilian clothing for all the returning soldiers. Manufacturers increased production—with the help of standardized sizes and new and better sewing machines— and were able to produce clothing to fit most of the male population. By the year 1900, most American men were completely clothed in mass-produced, ready-to-wear garments. They could buy suits, shirts, hats, and shoes with well-established brand names.
Women, on the other hand, continued to sew much of their own clothing long after men were buying all theirs ready-made. But this eventually changed, and by 1910 even women could buy every article of clothing ready-made, cither from mail-order catalogs or from department stores. One of the earliest mass-produced garments for women was the shirtwaist, which today we call the blouse. The shirtwaist or blouse was very popular because it was suitable for every occasion. The shirtwaist was produced in standard sizes in a variety of fabrics, making it convenient and affordable for women of all social classes.
Question：
The professor discusses the history of the clothing industry. Explain how this industry contributed to the uniformity of goods.
