Question

Which sentence would be an effective thesis statement for a historical essay on the American industrial revolution?

Answer 1

The American industrial revolution grew out of the British industrial revolution.

The American industrial revolution had a major impact on Americans socially and economically.

The American industrial revolution occurred during the late nineteenth century.

The American industrial revolution ultimately led to the production of the first automobile.

Answer 2

The third one is just a fact, nothing you can really write a paper on (just based on that sentence alone).
Fourth one is too specific.
The first goes off topic.

What are you left with, then? The second has to be the best bet.