The major development in transportation that revolutionized the 19th-century economy was the railway system, particularly the expansion of steam-powered railroads. Railways allowed for faster, more efficient movement of goods and people across vast distances, facilitating trade and economic growth. This transportation revolution connected rural and urban areas, promoting industrialization and urbanization. It significantly reduced travel time and costs, enabling the swift movement of agricultural products and manufactured goods. Railroads played a crucial role in shaping regional economies, fostering national markets, and improving access to resources. By linking regions, they also contributed to the social and cultural integration of diverse areas.