
Riverboat trade
Riverboat trade refers to the commerce conducted via boats navigating inland waterways like rivers. These boats transport goods such as crops, manufactured items, and raw materials between different regions, facilitating regional economic integration and growth. Historically, riverboats played a vital role in connecting communities, especially before the widespread development of railroads and highways. Their ability to carry large loads efficiently made them essential for trade, often influencing settlement patterns and economic development along major rivers. Overall, riverboat trade is a key component of regional commerce driven by the natural geography of navigable waterways.