The steam engine, in the context of Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH), refers to a heat engine that performs mechanical work using steam as its working fluid. This invention fundamentally transformed manufacturing and transportation during the Industrial Revolution. A prime example is its application in powering factories, enabling mass production, and fueling locomotives, revolutionizing land travel.
Its importance lies in its role as a catalyst for economic and social change. It facilitated the growth of industries, increased efficiency in production, and expanded markets. Its utilization led to urbanization as people migrated to areas with factories and employment opportunities. It also contributed to the expansion of infrastructure, such as railroads, which facilitated trade and westward expansion in the United States. Understanding its impact is crucial for comprehending the key themes of industrialization, technological innovation, and economic development in 19th-century America.