Steamboats Changed America

By: Bill Wiemuth, History Highlights

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Step aboard for a fast-paced journey through one of the most transformative chapters in U.S. history. In less than 100 pages, you will explore the real stories of the people, machines, and moments that forever changed how America moved, traded, and grew.

Before rails and highways, America’s rivers were the lifelines of commerce and culture. Then came the steamboat — a revolutionary marriage of steam power and river travel that opened the nation’s heartland to new opportunities.

• True stories of invention and adventure — from John Fitch’s early steam experiments to Robert Fulton’s triumphs.
• The rivers that built America — how the Ohio, Mississippi, and others became vital highways for commerce and culture.
• Civil War on the water — steamboats as troop transports, supply ships, and strategic assets.
• Bold characters, real events — meet the inventors, captains, and everyday people whose lives were shaped by steam.
• Economic and cultural impact — how river commerce spread news, religion, politics, and the arts to America’s frontier.

Whether you’re drawn to the grit of invention, the thrill of river adventures, or the sweep of American history, this History Highlights Series book delivers a captivating, fact-filled read you can easily enjoy.

Get your edition today to discover how steam turned America’s rivers into engines of change — and meet the people who made it happen.