The introduction of the steam engine had a profound effect on transportation, revolutionizing how goods and people moved. In the early 19th century, steam-powered locomotives and ships enabled faster, more efficient transport compared to traditional horse-drawn carriages or sailing vessels. Railroads, driven by steam engines, facilitated the rapid movement of goods across vast distances, contributing to industrialization and economic growth. Steam-powered ships also increased maritime trade by reducing travel time. Overall, the steam engine marked a significant transition in transportation technology, leading to the expansion of trade networks and the modern transportation systems we rely on today.