The history of transportation dates back to people's first use of animals, perhaps 8,000 years ago. The crucial inventions of the wheel and the axle enabled people to move heavier loads. Boats with sails allowed wind-driven movement over long distances of ocean without the need for large teams of rowers. And the development of steam engines, and then internal combustion, enabled fast transit over land and sea. This book looks at the technological advances that have made all this possible—and the inventors whose inspiration has helped shape our world.