DOT Civil Rights
for Kids & Youth
For Kids & Youth Home Did You Know Facts & Fiction Fun & Games
Steamboats Page

Robert Fulton designed the first efficient steamboat and "in 1802 with the help of Robert Livingston, launched a small, steam-driven paddle-wheel boat". In 1807, he received a patent for the construction of a 150-ft steamship called the Clermont. This ship made a famous voyage from New York City to Albany in 32 hours.

He devoted the remaining years of his life to designing steamboats and "died in New York City on February 24, 1815".

"Fulton, Robert," Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2004
Blue Divider
Ship Image

Ships are one of the oldest means of transportation and are widely used to transport goods from one country to another. The United States depends on ships for importing and exporting goods and is the world's leading trading nation.

Blue Divider
Passenger Ship Image
People enjoyed taking cruise vacations back in the 19th Century, however, they didn't become popular until the 1960s, but they could only carry 600 to 700 passengers. As the demand rose for cruises, companies built larger and elaborate ships. As time passed, the number of passengers they carried increased. The largest cruise ship to date is the Queen Mary and can take up to 2,620 passengers.
Blue Divider

DOT Civil Rights Homepage