George Stephenson
George Stephenson was a pivotal figure in the history of the Industrial Revolution and is widely recognized as the "Father of Railways." Here are key details about his life and contributions:
Early Life
- Born on June 9, 1781, in Wylam, Northumberland, England, to a poor mining family.
- He had minimal formal education but was naturally curious and mechanically inclined.
- Began working in the mines at age 17, where he also learned about steam engines.
Innovations and Career
Legacy
- Stephenson's work revolutionized transportation, making railways a viable and efficient means for transporting goods and passengers.
- He played a key role in the standardization of rail gauges, advocating for the Standard Gauge of 4 feet 8.5 inches.
- His innovations in steam locomotion were fundamental in shaping modern transportation systems.
Later Life and Death
External Links for Further Reading
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