What significant invention is Robert Fulton credited with?

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Robert Fulton is credited with the invention of the steamboat, which revolutionized transportation on water. His development of a practical steamboat in the early 19th century significantly improved the efficiency of river travel and commerce, allowing for faster movement of goods and people compared to traditional methods like sailing ships or rowing. The steamboat utilized steam engines to propel the boat, which made it possible to travel upstream, opening new trade routes and contributing to the economic growth of the United States during the Industrial Revolution. This innovation was a critical advancement that paved the way for the broader use of steam power in various industries and shaped the future of transportation.