Final answer:
The steam engine helped stimulate economic growth during the late 1800s by revolutionizing transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The invention that helped stimulate economic growth during the late 1800s was the steam engine. The steam engine revolutionized transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture by providing a more efficient and powerful source of energy. It enabled the development of railroads, textile mills, and machinery such as mechanical seeders and threshing machines, leading to increased productivity and economic growth.