In 1803, Robert Fulton began experimenting with steamboats. With the financial assistance of Chancellor Livingston, he was able to launch a steamboat on the Seine, which unfortunately sank due to faulty construction of the frame. He soon after built another boat, but it didn't go very fast. Because he was encouraged with success, he ordered an engine from Watt & Boulton. In the spring of 1807, Fulton's boat was completed, with the engine attached. On August 11, 1807, the Clermont traveled from the Hudson to Albany, a 32 hour trip. Fulton's successful steamboat created jealousy and rivalry which led to the rapid multiplication of steamboats. Some of Fulton's include the Car of Neptune, the Paragon, the Firefly, and the Olive Branch. Water transportation was improving greatly, with the creation of canals. It was faster and more effective because England is surrounded by water. By the mid-1800s, 4,250 miles of inland channels cut the cost of the transportation of raw materials.
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| Robert Fulton's Steamboat |
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