propultion development By fredcs Period: Jan 1, 1783 to Jan 1, 1900 development period Aug 22, 1787 first steam powered boat Steam boats came into popular use in america in 1787 when John Fitch designed and built the first sucessful steam boat. Jan 1, 1800 Clipper Ships Jan 1, 1801 First submarine built Jan 1, 1819 First steam ship to cross atlantic Jan 1, 1845 Ocen liners made from iron and driven by propellors Jan 1, 1880 paddle steemers