Why was the steamboat important to the Industrial Revolution?

At the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the invention of the steam engine became widely popular. In 1787, John Fitch demonstrated the first steamboat, which had twelve paddles and was propelled by a steam engine. From 1787 to the 1830s, steamboats were improved. read more

The steamboat was vital to enable regular seaborne navigation in all weathers. Previous to the steamboat, international seaborne trade depended on the weather and particularly on the trade winds. read more

At the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the invention of the steam engine became widely popular. In 1787, John Fitch demonstrated the first steamboat, which had twelve paddles and was propelled by a steam engine. From 1787 to the 1830s, steamboats were improved. In 1787, James Rumsey created the world's first boat moved by jet propulsion. read more

The development of the stationary steam engine was an essential early element of the Industrial Revolution. The world was becoming an industrialized place before the advent of steam power, but would never have progressed so quickly without it. read more