Final answer:
The transportation revolution of the early 1800s was marked by the introduction of railroads, steamships, and improved roads, which greatly enhanced travel and commerce.
Step-by-step explanation:
The early 1800s witnessed a transportation revolution characterized by three novel forms of transportation: railroads, steamships, and improved road networks.
Railroads, instigated by the development of the steam locomotive, significantly reduced travel time and contributed to economic expansion by facilitating the shipment of goods over long distances.
Steam-powered ships, pioneered by Robert Fulton, offered an efficient and reliable alternative to sailing vessels, particularly impacting water transportation and the rapid economic development of regions like the Mississippi River Valley.
Lastly, advancements in road construction, such as the invention of cheap paving techniques, expanded the road networks vital for the postal services and travel, preceding the era of automobiles.