What was significant about John Deere's first plow?

John Deere's first plow is significant because it was made from steel, a groundbreaking material at the time. Prior to the use of steel, plows were typically constructed from wood or iron. The introduction of a steel plow represented a major advancement in agricultural technology, as steel is much more durable than wood and provides a smoother, more efficient cut through soil. This innovation allowed farmers to work more effectively in tougher soil conditions, particularly in the Midwest, where prairie soil could be quite challenging to plow. The steel plow was instrumental in increasing agricultural productivity during the 19th century, helping to transform farming practices and ultimately contributing to the expansion of agriculture in the United States.