Development of transportation in America. Overarching Lesson: The development of transportation is important to America as it helped improve many aspects of America, such as the economy and expansion of America.
By Alexyu
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King's Highway
The King’s Highway had begun to be built in 1650. The King’s Highway is the oldest and first road in America. This road connected South Carolina to Massachusetts, making it easier for people to travel across colonies. The road created a flat path that made long trips easier as carriage rides became less bumpy. In addition, the road acted as a guide for people. This marked a step in transportation as many roads were created after, and it led to an increase in trade between the colonies. -
Creation of the Conestoga wagon
On December 31st, 1717, the Conestoga wagon was created. The wagon could lift six short tons of materials, and it could also cross rivers and streams. This allowed the wagon to be used in trade as it made moving materials easier. In addition, the wagon helped increase the amount of trade over land because before the invention, trading was mostly done through the ocean. Also, these wagons were used for migration as they could carry many items for families. -
The first successful trail of a steamboat
A steamboat created by John Fitch had successfully sailed in the Delaware River. This marked a step in the development of steamboats. However, the marketing campaign was not successful, causing the ship to never go on any voyages, but this event had inspired others to create better steamboats. Ultimately leading to the creation of the first commercial steamboat. -
Patent granted to Isaac Briggs and William Longstreet for a stem engine
On January 30, 1789, a patent was provided to Isaac Briggs and William Longstreet for creating a new type of steam engine. The engine was more efficient than past engines because it could produce more power. This patent would lead to innovation in other machines as it would lead to the creation of a working steamboat and steam locomotive. -
The Clermont had a successful voage
The Clermont was a steamboat that launched and had made a successful voyage up the Hudson River. This marked the first steamboat to travel up a river and successfully return. The launch was just the start as the use of steamboats on major U.S. rivers had raised significantly afterwards, making the Clermont the first ship that spread the popularity. With the rise of steamboats, trade had also increased as new steamboats would connect people downstream to those upstream. -
The creation of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad
The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad was the first passenger and freight line created. This railroad had connected Ohio to Baltimore, Maryland. The creation is important because it increased expansion to the west of America. In addition, it created a new market for railroads and locomotives that could transport a variety of things. Some locomotives on the railroad could transport people, or items for trading. Leading to an expansion in the U.S. economy.