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3. What role did Henry Ford and other businessmen play in the development of the aviation industry?

Ford and other businessmen invested in the work of engineers and company founders such as William Bushnell Stout, who designed new engines and plane models. They also—again in the case of Ford and Stout—bought out promising companies and moved them into more productive and centrally located factories. Some, like Frederick Brant Rentschler, were even forced by the government into buying out smaller companies, such as the Lawrance Aero-Engine Corporation which was struggling to popularize the radial engine. They also used the clout of their already-established reputations to advertise air travel and awaken the public’s interest. Even real estate promoters and newspaper publishers offered funding for startup airline companies.   

5. Describe the role of the U.S. Postal Service in the development of aviation as a business.

With the passage of the Air Mail Act, the Postal Service opened bids for airline companies to cover proposed air routes. Small, starting companies seized these opportunities to make a profit and a name for themselves. In fact, the modern air passenger service was originally born as a side business coupled with air freight. The Post Office rapidly became creator and distributor of air mail routes, in the form of contracts which airlines competed to win.

8. Why does the author compare the air races of the twenties and thirties with stock car racing?

The author makes this comparison because, as much as the races were a chance for pilots to showcase their skill and daring, they were also a chance for airline companies to promote their models and demonstrate just how far their designs could be pushed. Thus, while the public cheered the crews, the investors and businessmen eyed the machines being flown and mulled over which company to support.