USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Compared to other types of craft used at the time, such as flatboats, keelboats, and barges, steamboats greatly reduced both the time and expense of shipping goods to distant markets. For this reason, they were enormously important in the growth and consolidation of the U.S. economy before the Civil War.

Detailed explanation-2: -The total cost of the steamboat was in excess of twenty thousand dollars. Despite the criticism, Fulton pursued his dream. On August 17, 1807, the Clermont made its first trip from New York City to Albany, New York, along the Hudson River.

Detailed explanation-3: -Indian attacks were a concern, but the biggest danger facing steamboats was boiler explosion. If boilers were not carefully watched and maintained, pressure could build up in the boiler and cause a spectacular and deadly explosion.

Detailed explanation-4: -The steamboat industry not only provided the West with a strong transportation system, but it developed the economy of the region, too. Steamboat operations, as well as the construction and repair of steamboats, created more jobs and led to people moving to these jobs.