Steamboat travel refers to the use of boats powered by steam engines, which became popular in the early 19th century. These vessels revolutionized transportation on rivers and lakes, allowing for faster and more efficient movement of goods and people. The first successful steamboat, the Clermont, was launched by Robert Fulton in 1807, marking the beginning of a new era in water travel. Steamboats played a crucial role in the economic development of regions like the Mississippi River and the Great Lakes. They enabled the transport of agricultural products and raw materials, contributing to the growth of cities and trade. The era of steamboat travel continued until the rise of railroads and modern transportation methods.