Steam Engines

The use of steam engines on ships also had a significant impact on trade and commerce. With the ability to travel against the wind and currents, steamships could navigate more efficiently and reliably, opening up new trade routes and increasing the speed of transportation. This led to a boom in international trade and the growth of global economies.

In the mid-19th century, the introduction of the compound steam engine, which used steam more efficiently, further revolutionized the shipping industry. This allowed for longer journeys and larger ships, making steam-powered vessels the preferred mode of transportation for both passengers and cargo.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the peak of steam engine technology on ships, with the development of the triple-expansion engine and the steam turbine. These advancements greatly increased the power and efficiency of steam engines, making them the dominant form of propulsion for ships.

However, with the invention of diesel engines in the early 20th century, the use of steam engines on ships began to decline. Diesel engines were more compact, efficient, and required less maintenance, making them a more practical choice for modern ships.