Which improvement most dramatically increased the speed and lowered the expense of commerce in the first half of the nineteenth century?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Canals and steamboats allowed for faster and cheaper transportation of goods, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States, leading to growth in industry and commerce. While the transcontinental railroad and federally financed roads were important later developments, they did not have as significant of an impact in the first half of the nineteenth century. The factory system also contributed to industrial growth, but did not directly affect transportation and commerce.

Which Improvement Most Dramatically Increased the Speed and Lowered the Expense