1. **Communication was slow:** Since physical letters often had to cover long distances, it could take weeks or even months for news or messages to reach their destination. This often delayed decisions and limited information flow.
2. **Local Economy dominance:** Given the difficulty of transportation, people tended to buy and sell goods locally. Most folks relied heavily on local, seasonal produce rather than imported goods. This led to a predominant local economy.
3. **Innovation and Invention:** The need for better transportation methods lead to substantial innovations and inventions. The early 1800s saw the advent of steamboats, canals, and later, railroads, transforming transit completely.
4. **Isolation of Communities:** The difficulty of travel also meant that communities were quite isolated. This fostered a sort of local identity, as communities became self-sufficient and developed unique cultures and traditions.
5. **Limited Migration:** Finally, it was challenging for individuals or families to migrate or move. This resulted in families staying around the same area for many generations.