Robert Fulton and the Steamboat

Summary
This is an introductory lesson about Robert Fulton and his achievements.

Objectives
• to identify and discuss some of Robert Fulton?s accomplishments;

• to describe and discuss some notable events in Robert Fulton?s life.

Suggested Grades
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade

Excerpt
Robert Fulton was an American inventor and engineer. He was born in Little Britain Township in Pennsylvania on November 14, 1765. He is credited with creating the first commercially successful steamboat. He also experimented with submarine torpedoes and torpedo boats. His continued study led to several advancements with boats.

Fulton was first interested in steamboats when he visited William Henry in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1777. Henry had learned of James Watt?s steam engine while visiting England and became interested in steam engines. In fact, Henry had made his own engine. When he tried putting his engine in a boat in 1767, the boat sank. In spite of this, Henry?s interest continued. Fulton began to share this interest after visiting Henry.

Continued...