04 - George and Robert Stephenson by Samuel Smiles

George Stephenson may not have invented the steam engine, the steam locomotive, or the Railway, but his contributions are undeniable. Known as ‘The father of the steam locomotive,’ Stephenson transformed a primitive and inefficient device into a reliable machine that ran for over a century. Despite his humble beginnings and learning to read at the age of twenty, Stephenson, along with his son Robert, became the preeminent engineers in the railway world. He pioneered the development of steam railways in England and worldwide, beginning with the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, and the London and Birmingham Railway. In the mid-nineteenth century, if you needed to build a railway, the Stephensons were your go-to engineers, especially if you wanted it to be profitable. Join us as we delve into the life and legacy of George and Robert Stephenson in this engaging podcast. (Summary by AJM)