Question

What was the largest industry by the late 1800s

Answer 1

By the late 1800s German chemical and electrical industries set the standard worldwide.

Explanation:

Germany's spectacular growth was due in part to ample iron and coal resources.

Answer 2

Library of Congress
Old industries expanded and many new ones, including petroleum refining, steel manufacturing, and electrical power, emerged. Railroads expanded significantly, bringing even remote parts of the country into a national market economy. Industrial growth transformed American society.