jan 1, 1815 - George Stephenson (1815) In 1815 George Stephenson, a self-educated Englishman, built t he first steam powered locomotive. In 1829 his Rocket won a contest by reaching a speed of 45 kilometers (28 miles) per hour. Although they were more efficient than Watt's invention, Stephenson's engines still burned too much coal for use at sea. Sailing ships remained the most effective means of transport over the seas.
Added to timeline:
Date:
jan 1, 1815
Now
~ 210 years ago