Ep 23. Speeding Up: Canals, Steamships, Railroads

In episode 23 of An Economic History of the World Since 1400 season 1, titled "Speeding Up: Canals, Steamships, Railroads," the focus is on how transportation evolved throughout the 19th century, and how this affected global trade and economic growth.

The episode begins by highlighting the importance of waterways in early modern Europe, as they were often the main mode of transportation for both people and goods. However, the Industrial Revolution brought about new inventions and innovations that transformed transportation.

One major development was the building of canals, which allowed for the transportation of heavy goods over longer distances at a faster rate. The episode covers the history of the construction of the Erie Canal in the United States, which helped to connect the Great Lakes region to the East Coast and drastically lowered transportation costs. The canal also played a key role in the settlement of the Midwest, and allowed for the transport of crops to new markets.

As the need for faster and more efficient transportation grew, steamships became increasingly popular. These steam-powered vessels allowed for faster and more reliable transportation across the ocean, revolutionizing trade between Europe, the United States, and other parts of the world. The episode highlights the role of steamships in the Opium Wars between China and Britain, as well as their impact on the American Civil War.

The episode then moves on to the invention of railroads, arguably one of the most significant transportation developments in history. The railroads allowed for the rapid transportation of people and goods across large distances, and drastically cut travel times. The episode covers the history of the first railroads, including the Liverpool and Manchester Railway in England, and the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.

The episode also explores the economic impact of railroads on both sides of the Atlantic. In the United States, the railroads helped to spur westward expansion and drove economic growth, while in Europe they helped to connect different markets and reduce transportation costs. Additionally, railroads had significant social and cultural impacts, allowing for the development of mass tourism and the emergence of a more mobile workforce.

Overall, "Speeding Up: Canals, Steamships, Railroads" offers a fascinating look at how transportation evolved in the 19th century, and how these developments helped to shape the modern world. The episode is filled with interesting anecdotes and stories about specific individuals and events, making it an engaging and informative watch for anyone interested in economic history.