The "Steamboat Era" refers to the period in the 19th century when steamboats became a popular mode of transportation on rivers and lakes in the United States. These boats, powered by steam engines, revolutionized travel and trade, allowing for faster and more efficient movement of goods and people. The era began in the early 1800s and peaked around the 1850s, significantly impacting the economy and settlement patterns in regions like the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes. During the Steamboat Era, notable figures such as Robert Fulton played a crucial role in developing and promoting steamboat technology. The boats facilitated the growth of cities and towns along waterways, contributing to westward expansion. However, the era began to decline with the rise of railroads in the late 19th century, which offered more reliable and extensive transportation options.