Did more than one person claim to be the inventor of the steam engine?

Yes, multiple individuals claimed to be the inventors of the steam engine, with notable figures including Thomas Newcomen and James Watt. Newcomen developed the first practical steam engine in the early 18th century, primarily for pumping water. Later, James Watt made significant improvements in the late 18th century, enhancing its efficiency and utility, which led to widespread use in various industries. Both contributions were crucial to the development of steam technology, but they were distinct advancements rather than competing claims to a singular invention.