While the invention of the steamboat is often attributed to American inventor Robert Fulton, credit should really go to John Fitch. Fitch built four steamboats in the late eighteenth century. These boats traveled successfully on lakes and rivers and proved that steam could be used to propel boats. Fitch’s boats included more traditional elements as well, such as paddle wheels and screw propellers. By blending tried and true methods of propulsion with new technology, Fitch created functioning steamboats. He forfeited his place in American memory due not to any mechanical failings, but to financial ones. His production and operating costs were too high to make steam travel economically feasible. As a result, many people have forgotten his role in the invention of the steamboat. It wasn’t until after his death that Robert Fulton created a commercially successful steamboat and became known as “the father of steam navigation.”
Which of the following sentences should be included in a summary of the text?
A. It wasn’t until after his death that Robert Fulton created a commercially successful steamboat and became known as “the father of steam navigation.”
B. Fitch's boats cost too much to make.
C. I think that it would be fun to ride on a steamboat someday.
D. John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats.
3 answers
The sentences that should be included in a summary of the text are:
A. It wasn’t until after his death that Robert Fulton created a commercially successful steamboat and became known as “the father of steam navigation.” D. John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats.
These sentences summarize the key points about John Fitch's contributions to the invention of the steamboat and the eventual recognition of Robert Fulton.
The better option to include in a summary of the text is:
D. John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats.
This sentence succinctly captures the main point about Fitch's innovative approach in creating steamboats, reflecting the core message of the paragraph.
