The 19th century was a time where the United States were just starting to industrialize. As factories came into play; they needed power to operate their machines and equipment; the need for these things sent the world into a race on who could provide them. After the steam engine was finally created, the steamboat was then formed. The steamboat was the first form of engine-powered travel across water. The concept of a boat moving at speeds of 5 miles an hour amazed people. Just like in the business world; inventors also battle for the best product. Inventors continued to add innovations to the steamboat and eventually the steamship was created. Then boats started to form into what they are today. The invention of the steamboat also sparked the invention of the steam train which is what ironically led to the steamboats decline. No only did this effect future innovations, this invention had a huge effect on the economy. The steamboat not only moved people, but also goods. This opened up the market for many items because these items could be taken to new ports and locations such as New Orleans. With the high demand in goods and fuel for these boats; along came thousands of jobs in the coal mines and in the factories. The steamboat also led to thousands of new settlement across America's rivers, including the huge boom of Indiana's Ohio River Cities. Overall the steamboat was a huge part of the Industrial Revolution, this invention helped the economy, America's growth, and laid down the foundation for the train and present-day boats.