Stagecoaches were horse-drawn vehicles used for long-distance travel in the 18th and 19th centuries. They typically carried passengers and mail between towns, making regular stops along established routes. These coaches were designed for comfort and speed, often featuring springs and enclosed cabins. The introduction of stagecoaches improved communication and transportation, connecting remote areas to urban centers. They played a significant role in the expansion of the United States during the Westward Expansion, facilitating trade and travel across vast distances. Stagecoaches eventually declined in popularity with the advent of the railroad and automobiles.