Eli Whitney was an American inventor born on December 8, 1765, in Westborough, Massachusetts. He is best known for inventing the cotton gin, a machine that revolutionized the cotton industry by efficiently separating cotton fibers from seeds. This invention significantly increased cotton production in the southern United States. In addition to the cotton gin, Whitney played a crucial role in the development of interchangeable parts for firearms. This innovation allowed for easier assembly and repair of weapons, laying the groundwork for modern manufacturing techniques. Whitney's contributions had a lasting impact on both agriculture and industry in America.