Who invented the steam locomotive and when?

The steam locomotive was invented by George Stephenson, an English engineer, in 1814. However, it was his later invention, the “Locomotion No. 1,” in 1825, that became the first successful steam-powered train to operate commercially. Stephenson’s design was improved upon over the years, and in 1830, his train, the “Rocket,” won a competition to design the fastest and most efficient locomotive, significantly advancing rail transport. The steam locomotive revolutionized travel and trade, enabling faster movement of people and goods, and played a key role in the Industrial Revolution.