Robert Fulton was an American engineer and inventor, best known for developing the first commercially successful steamboat. Born on November 14, 1765, in Pennsylvania, he played a significant role in the advancement of transportation during the early 19th century. His steamboat, named the Clermont, made its maiden voyage on the Hudson River in 1807, revolutionizing river travel and trade. In addition to his work on steamboats, Fulton also contributed to submarine design and naval warfare. He created the Nautilus, one of the first practical submarines, and worked on torpedoes. Fulton's innovations greatly influenced the development of modern transportation and military technology.