Railroad history began in the early 19th century, transforming transportation and commerce. The first successful steam locomotive, built by George Stephenson in 1814, marked the start of a new era. Railroads quickly spread across Europe and North America, connecting cities and facilitating the movement of goods and people. This innovation played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, boosting economies and shaping societies. By the mid-1800s, the Transcontinental Railroad in the United States linked the east and west coasts, making travel faster and more efficient. Railroads also contributed to the expansion of the American West, allowing settlers to move into new territories. Today, railroads remain vital for freight and passenger transport worldwide.