Final answer:
Richard Trevithick was the inventor who created the first locomotive in 1804, catalyzing faster transportation during the Industrial Revolution. His steam locomotive and the subsequent development of railroads dramatically transformed transportation and industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 1804, the inventor who created the first locomotive which allowed for faster transportation throughout Europe was Richard Trevithick. His inventions and the subsequent construction of railroads were crucial to the transportation revolution during the Industrial Revolution. Not only did the steam locomotive facilitate the rapid transportation of raw materials and finished goods, but it also played a significant role in the economic development and settlement of the West. Furthermore, improvements to steam engines, largely credited to James Watt, revolutionized various industries and enabled the development of railroads independent of water sources.
The significant change in transportation effected by railroads is often considered one of the most transformative in human history. It was Richard Trevithick's pioneering work that laid the groundwork for this revolution, which Robert Stevenson later advanced with his own designs such as the "Rocket" locomotive.