The Savannah was the world's first commercial steamship. Built in 1818 by American engineer and inventor, Robert Fulton, the Savannah made history as the first steamship to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean. This groundbreaking achievement marked a new era in transportation and trade, revolutionizing the way goods and people could be transported across long distances.

Equipped with both steam and sail power, the Savannah set sail from Savannah, Georgia on May 22, 1819, bound for Liverpool, England. The journey took a total of 29 days, with the steam engine being used for a total of 80 hours. While the steam engine was not powerful enough to sustain the entire journey, it proved that steam power could be a viable option for long-distance travel.

The success of the Savannah paved the way for the development of steam-powered ships and ultimately led to the decline of traditional sail-powered vessels. Steamships were faster, more reliable, and could travel longer distances without being at the mercy of the wind. This shift in technology had a significant impact on global trade and commerce, allowing for faster and more efficient transportation of goods and people.

Today, the Savannah is remembered as a pioneering vessel that revolutionized the maritime industry. Its historic voyage across the Atlantic Ocean showcased the potential of steam power and inspired a new wave of innovation in shipbuilding. The legacy of the Savannah lives on in the countless steamships that followed in its wake, helping to shape the modern world of transportation and commerce.

In conclusion, the Savannah was truly a trailblazer in the world of commercial shipping. Its successful crossing of the Atlantic Ocean marked a turning point in maritime history and set the stage for the development of steam-powered ships. The impact of the Savannah's historic journey can still be felt today, as steam power continues to play a vital role in the global transportation industry.

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