What industry was catalyzed by the commercial viability of the internal combustion engine?
Answer
The automobile industry
The internal combustion engine provided the motive power required for efficient personal transport and global shipping, which served as the cornerstone for the automobile industry. This development created a massive cycle of economic growth, influencing industries ranging from oil refining and rubber production to steel manufacturing and road construction. The foundational patent for this engine was immensely valuable due to its role in enabling this entire global sector.

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