Final answer:
The first commercially successful steam engine was developed by Thomas Newcomen in England in the early 18th century. James Watt later improved the steam engine design, leading to its wide adoption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The development of steam engines can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution. The first commercially successful steam engine was developed by Thomas Newcomen in England in the early 18th century. However, the design was inefficient and had limitations. James Watt, a Scottish engineer, later improved the steam engine design in 1763, which led to its widespread adoption.