Final answer:
Robert Fulton's invention of the steamboat significantly expedited the shipping of goods and thereby contributed substantially to the progression of trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
Robert Fulton is renowned for his invention of the steamboat. This pivotal invention in the 19th century played a crucial role in advancing trade as it provided a faster and more efficient way to ship goods. By increasing the speed of transport, the steamboat enabled quicker trade exchanges, thus fostering economic growth and development.
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