The 1950s were essential for the American automotive industry. The era that continued after the Second World War brought with it a wide range of technologies to the consumer of automobiles, and a series of problems for independent car manufacturers. The industry matured in an era of rapid technological change; Mass production and the benefits of economies of scale led to innovative designs and higher profits, creating high competition among companies. By the end of the decade, the industry had been transformed into what are known as the "big three" (General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler) and AMC (American Motors Corporation), and the era of independent car manufacturing companies ended, since most of these were consolidated or were left bankrupt. The production of automobiles became the largest industrial segment in the United States, and the longest that has ever existed; The US auto industry was much larger than the rest of the world combined. By 1960, one in 6 American workers were directly or indirectly employed by the industry, but automation and imports changed the need for a large work force in the following decades. The 50's were the pinnacles of the American auto industry and helped to shape the United States as a super economic power. Due to the large number of cars on the market, at this time the state was given the task of building highways and roads throughout the country.
