Cables, Clippers, and Pony Riders

Transportation and Communication Developments

• Essential for binding the U.S. and the world.

• 1858: Cyrus Field organized a transatlantic cable project.

  • Initial cable from Newfoundland to Ireland failed after 3 weeks.

  • 1866: Permanent connection established with a heavier cable.

Early U.S. Merchant Marine Challenges

• Early 19th century faced difficulties due to:

  • Embargo

  • War of 1812

  • Economic panics of 1819 and 1837

• Limited American naval design innovation.

American Maritime Advancements

• 1819: Savannah, a pioneer steamer, crossed the Atlantic but primarily used sails.

• 1840s-1850s marked a golden age for American shipping.

• Emergence of clippers:

  • Designed in Yankee naval yards (e.g., Donald McKay in Boston).

  • Characteristics: long, narrow, and fast, sacrificing cargo space for speed.

  • Capable of outpacing steamboats in good conditions.