Historical railways refer to the early systems of train transport that emerged in the 19th century, revolutionizing travel and trade. The first successful steam locomotive, built by George Stephenson, began operating in 1814, leading to the establishment of extensive railway networks across Europe and North America. These railways facilitated the movement of goods and people, significantly impacting industrial growth and urbanization. The development of historical railways also included iconic routes like the Transcontinental Railroad in the United States, completed in 1869, which connected the east and west coasts. Many of these early railways have since been preserved as heritage lines, allowing visitors to experience the history and technology of early rail transport.