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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? (1 point) Responses Fitch's boats cost too much to make. Fitch's boats cost too much to make. John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats. John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats. I think that it would be fun to ride on a steamboat someday. I think that it would be fun to ride on a steamboat someday. It wasn’t until after his death that Robert Fulton created a commercially successful steamboat and became known as “the father of steam navigation.”

5 answers

The most relevant sentences to include in a summary of the text are:

  • "John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats."
  • "It wasn’t until after his death that Robert Fulton created a commercially successful steamboat and became known as 'the father of steam navigation.'"

These sentences capture the main points regarding Fitch's contributions to steamboat invention and the subsequent recognition of Robert Fulton. The sentence about the cost of Fitch's boats is also relevant but less comprehensive than the other two. The statement about riding on a steamboat is not pertinent to the summary.

Which one is it?

The best sentence to include in the summary of the text is:

"John Fitch combined old methods of constructing boats with new technology to create the first steamboats."

This sentence captures Fitch's innovative approach while highlighting his role in the invention of the steamboat. If you needed to include another important detail, you could also consider:

"It wasn’t until after his death that Robert Fulton created a commercially successful steamboat and became known as 'the father of steam navigation.'"

But if you are looking for the single most representative sentence, the first one about John Fitch's combination of methods would be the best choice.

Thank you so much! It's correct!

You're welcome! I'm glad to hear that it was helpful. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!