What is the significance of Robert Fulton's steamboat?

Robert Fulton's steamboat, particularly the Clermont launched in 1807, revolutionized transportation by enabling efficient and reliable travel along rivers and inland waterways. Its successful commercial operation demonstrated the viability of steam power for navigation, significantly reducing travel time and increasing trade opportunities. This innovation not only transformed the shipping industry but also contributed to the expansion of the American economy and the westward movement of settlers. Fulton's work laid the groundwork for the development of modern maritime transportation.