In 1860, was the top industry as ranked by value added. a. cotton goods b. boots and shoes c. men’s clothing d. iron

A. Cotton goods

Explanation:

The cotton goods industry was the top industry in the years immediately prior to the Civil War.

The South provided the raw material, and the North used this material to produce finished cottong goods.

This industry flourished particularly in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, were many factories were established. The adoption of the power loom in these areas led to great economic development and growth.