A significant transportation development that began in the 19th century was the expansion of the railway system. The advent of steam locomotives revolutionized the movement of goods and passengers across vast distances. Railways facilitated industrial growth, enabling quicker shipping of raw materials and finished products, thus contributing to economic development. Notable projects, such as the United States' Transcontinental Railroad and England’s rail network expansion, connected cities and rural areas, fostering urbanization and cultural exchange. The railway not only transformed commerce but also shaped social dynamics, allowing for greater mobility and the democratization of travel, ultimately influencing the modern world.