The era of the modern railway started with the introduction of the steam locomotive at the beginning of the 18th century. The first steam locomotive railway was built in Great Britain by Richard Trevithick. Afterward, large networks of railways began to develop in France, Germany, and Russia besides Great Britain.
The use of the train dramatically improved the transit of people throughout the continent, as well as increased trade. This second effect improved the economy of various locations throughout Europe. As they served as stations for the trains.