What was the paddle-wheel steamboats main purpose?

The main purpose of paddle-wheel steamboats was to facilitate transportation and commerce along rivers and lakes during the 19th century. They provided a faster and more efficient means of moving goods and passengers compared to traditional sailboats and flatboats. These steamboats played a crucial role in the economic development of regions, particularly in the United States, by enabling trade and opening up remote areas for settlement and development. Additionally, they contributed to the expansion of the shipping industry and the overall growth of the American economy.