Steam Train Revolution: US Transport's Iron Horse

The dramatic alteration of American commerce and societal structures stems directly from the advent of the steam-powered train, representing a pivotal moment in the nation's developmental narrative. As a technological innovation, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, established in 1827, exemplified the initial embrace of steam-powered locomotion to facilitate more efficient transport of goods and people. The subsequent proliferation of railway networks across the United States was instrumental in connecting disparate regions, thus fostering economic integration and interdependence. Cornelius Vanderbilt's strategic consolidation of railway lines during the mid-19th century further amplified the transformative effect of steam trains, enabling streamlined logistical operations and extended market reach. The Transcontinental Railroad, completed in 1869, stands as a monumental achievement that physically linked the East and West Coasts, thereby galvanizing industrial expansion and reshaping population distribution patterns. Thus, the crucial inquiry of how did the steam powered train help this transportation system finds its answer in the unparalleled capacity of this technology to overcome geographical barriers, stimulate economic growth, and catalyze societal modernization on an unprecedented scale.

The Iron Horse Revolutionizes America: A 19th-Century Transformation

The 19th century witnessed a technological marvel that fundamentally reshaped the American landscape: the steam-powered train. Its impact extended far beyond mere transportation, triggering a cascade of changes that reverberate even today.

From the Eastern seaboard to the burgeoning West, the iron horse became a symbol of progress, connecting disparate communities and fueling unprecedented economic growth.

A Catalyst for Change

The introduction of steam-powered trains into 19th-century America was nothing short of revolutionary. These mechanical behemoths facilitated the rapid movement of goods and people, shrinking distances and fostering interconnectedness on an unprecedented scale.

Before the advent of the railroad, travel was arduous and time-consuming, limiting trade and hindering westward expansion. Steam-powered trains shattered these barriers, opening up new avenues for commerce and enabling the settlement of previously inaccessible territories.

Thesis: Economic Growth, Westward Expansion, and Technological/Regulatory Developments

This analysis argues that the proliferation of steam-powered trains in 19th-century America served as a catalyst for significant economic growth, accelerated westward expansion, and spurred crucial technological and regulatory developments.

The railroads did more than just transport; they transformed. They created new markets, stimulated industrial production, and fundamentally altered the social and political fabric of the nation.

The ensuing analysis will explore the multifaceted impact of steam-powered trains on the American experience, examining their role in shaping the nation's economic, social, and technological trajectory.

Setting the Stage for a Nation Transformed

The steam-powered train's profound impact can be seen in its effect on westward expansion.

By providing efficient transportation to previously remote areas, railroads incentivized settlement and agricultural development, enabling the cultivation of vast tracts of land and the exploitation of natural resources.

The railroad's influence was also profoundly felt in the realm of technology. The burgeoning rail industry spurred countless innovations in engineering, manufacturing, and operations, driving advances in locomotive design, track construction, and signaling systems.

Furthermore, the very scale and complexity of the railroad industry necessitated the development of regulatory frameworks to prevent monopolistic practices and ensure fair access to transportation. These regulatory initiatives, though often met with resistance, laid the groundwork for modern regulatory oversight.

The Genesis of Steam: Early Engines and American Pioneers

The advent of steam-powered trains in America was not a sudden phenomenon, but rather the culmination of decades of experimentation and refinement in steam engine technology. Before its application to railroads, steam power was already making inroads in other industries, laying the groundwork for its transformative impact on transportation.

From Stationary Engines to Mobile Power

Early steam engines, like those developed by Thomas Newcomen and James Watt, were primarily employed in stationary settings, such as mines and factories. These engines provided a reliable source of power for tasks like pumping water and driving machinery. While these early applications were geographically confined, they demonstrated the immense potential of steam as a source of mechanical energy.

The transition from stationary engines to mobile locomotives required significant engineering advancements. Adapting the bulky and inefficient steam engines of the early 1800s for use on rails presented numerous challenges.

Key Figures in Early American Railroad Development

The development of steam-powered trains in America was driven by the vision and ingenuity of several key individuals. These pioneers recognized the potential of railroads to revolutionize transportation and commerce, and they played a crucial role in bringing this vision to fruition.

George Stephenson's Influence

While not an American himself, George Stephenson's innovations in locomotive design had a profound impact on early American railroads. His work in England, particularly his development of the "Rocket," demonstrated the feasibility of steam-powered locomotives for practical transportation.

American engineers closely studied Stephenson's designs and adapted them to the specific needs and challenges of the American landscape. His influence can be seen in the designs of many of the earliest American locomotives.

John Stevens: A Visionary Advocate

John Stevens is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most vocal proponents of railroads in the United States. Recognizing the potential of steam-powered transportation, Stevens tirelessly advocated for the construction of railroads and the adoption of steam locomotives.

He built a small experimental steam locomotive in 1825 and demonstrated its capabilities on a circular track on his estate in Hoboken, New Jersey. This demonstration, though modest in scale, was a pivotal moment in American railroad history, proving the viability of steam locomotion.

Stevens' advocacy and early experiments paved the way for the widespread adoption of railroads in the US. He understood that improved transportation was vital for the country's economic growth and westward expansion.

Peter Cooper and the "Tom Thumb"

The story of Peter Cooper and the "Tom Thumb" is a cornerstone of early American railroad lore. In 1830, Cooper, a New York industrialist, designed and built the "Tom Thumb," a small, coal-fired locomotive, to demonstrate the potential of steam power to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O).

The "Tom Thumb" famously participated in a race against a horse-drawn carriage, a symbolic contest between old and new technologies. Though the "Tom Thumb" lost the race due to a mechanical failure, its performance impressed B&O officials and helped convince them to invest in steam locomotives.

The "Tom Thumb," despite its shortcomings, was a crucial step forward in American locomotive design. It demonstrated the potential of American ingenuity to develop and improve upon existing steam engine technology. The incident also highlighted the challenges of early railroad technology, underscoring the need for continued innovation and refinement.

Rails to Riches: The Rise of Railroad Tycoons and the Business of Rail

The relentless expansion of steam-powered railroads across 19th-century America did more than just lay tracks across the landscape; it paved the way for the rise of a new breed of entrepreneur: the railroad tycoon. These individuals, through shrewd business acumen, daring speculation, and sometimes ruthless tactics, amassed immense fortunes and wielded considerable influence over the nation's economy and political landscape. Their stories are complex, marked by both innovation and exploitation, and understanding their impact is crucial to grasping the full scope of the railroad revolution.

The Titans of the Rails

The era of railroad expansion witnessed the ascendance of several towering figures who came to define the industry. These individuals, often starting from humble beginnings, possessed a unique blend of vision, ambition, and ruthlessness that allowed them to navigate the turbulent waters of the rapidly evolving railroad business.

Cornelius Vanderbilt: The Commodore's Empire

Cornelius Vanderbilt, known as "The Commodore," epitomized the aggressive spirit of the railroad age. Initially a shipping magnate, Vanderbilt shrewdly recognized the potential of railroads and shifted his focus to consolidating railway lines in the Northeast.

His strategy centered on acquiring smaller, fragmented railroads and integrating them into a cohesive network, thereby controlling key transportation routes. Vanderbilt's ruthless business tactics, including aggressive pricing and strategic acquisitions, earned him both admiration and condemnation.

He prioritized efficiency and profitability, transforming the railroad industry into a more streamlined and powerful force. His control over vital rail lines gave him enormous leverage, enabling him to dictate terms and amass a vast fortune.

The "Big Four" and the Central Pacific Railroad

The construction of the Central Pacific Railroad, a crucial component of the Transcontinental Railroad, was spearheaded by a group of ambitious California businessmen known as the "Big Four": Collis P. Huntington, Leland Stanford, Mark Hopkins, and Charles Crocker.

These men, initially involved in the hardware business, recognized the immense potential of connecting California to the eastern states via rail. They secured government subsidies and navigated significant engineering challenges to build the western portion of the Transcontinental Railroad.

Collis P. Huntington was the aggressive and politically savvy lobbyist. Leland Stanford, while acting as the public face of the railroad (and later a senator and governor), was key to securing necessary legislation. Mark Hopkins managed the finances, and Charles Crocker oversaw the challenging construction efforts.

While their achievement was undeniable, the "Big Four" were also criticized for their business practices. Accusations of corruption, land speculation, and exploitation of immigrant laborers (particularly Chinese workers) plagued their legacy. Their story underscores the complex ethical considerations surrounding the rapid railroad expansion.

The Financial Engine: Speculation and Economic Impact

The construction and operation of railroads required massive capital investments, fueling a frenzy of financial activity and speculation. The railroad industry became inextricably linked to the stock market, and its fortunes often dictated the overall health of the national economy.

Railroad Bonds and Investment

Railroad companies issued bonds to raise capital for construction, attracting investors both domestically and internationally. The promise of high returns fueled a boom in railroad investment, but also created opportunities for unscrupulous operators to manipulate the market.

Speculation and "Railroad Mania"

The speculative nature of railroad stocks led to periods of intense "railroad mania," where prices soared to unsustainable levels. These speculative bubbles often burst, leading to financial panics and economic downturns.

The inherent risks of the railroad industry were often overshadowed by the allure of quick profits, creating a volatile and unpredictable financial landscape. The impact of railroad speculation was felt across the nation, influencing investment decisions and shaping the overall economic climate.

The Railroad's Broader Economic Impact

Beyond the immediate financial activity, the railroads had a profound impact on the broader American economy. They facilitated the movement of goods and people, opening up new markets and stimulating industrial growth.

The expansion of railroads created countless jobs in construction, manufacturing, and transportation. It fostered the development of related industries, such as coal mining, steel production, and timber harvesting.

The efficient transportation provided by railroads allowed farmers to access distant markets, boosting agricultural production. The railroads also facilitated the growth of cities and towns, creating centers of commerce and industry. While fortunes were made and lost, and ethical lines were often blurred, the railroads indelibly altered the economic fabric of the nation.

Connecting a Continent: The Transcontinental Railroad and Westward Expansion

The relentless expansion of steam-powered railroads across 19th-century America did more than just lay tracks across the landscape; it paved the way for the rise of a new breed of entrepreneur: the railroad tycoon. These individuals, through shrewd business acumen, daring speculation, and sometimes questionable ethics, amassed fortunes while simultaneously shaping the very fabric of the nation. Yet, the influence of the railroads extended far beyond the realm of industry titans. The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad marked a watershed moment, inextricably linking the destiny of the nation to the iron horse and accelerating westward expansion in ways previously unimaginable.

The Pacific Railroad Act and Governmental Enablement

The dream of a transcontinental railroad, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, had been simmering for decades. However, it was the exigencies of the Civil War that provided the necessary impetus for governmental action.

The Pacific Railroad Act of 1862, signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln, authorized the construction of the railroad, offering substantial land grants and financial incentives to private companies willing to undertake the monumental task. This unprecedented level of government support was crucial, as the scale of the project and the risks involved were simply too great for purely private ventures.

Abraham Lincoln's Pivotal Role

Abraham Lincoln's support for the Transcontinental Railroad was multifaceted. He viewed it as a strategic imperative for national unity, a way to bind the disparate regions of the country together during a time of profound division.

Moreover, Lincoln understood the economic benefits that would accrue from connecting the resources of the West with the industrial capacity of the East.

His administration's commitment to the project, enshrined in the Pacific Railroad Act, was a critical factor in its eventual success.

Construction and Completion: A Herculean Undertaking

The construction of the Transcontinental Railroad was an epic feat of engineering and human endurance. Two primary companies, the Union Pacific Railroad and the Central Pacific Railroad, embarked on a race to lay track, pushing westward from Omaha, Nebraska, and eastward from Sacramento, California, respectively.

The Central Pacific faced particularly daunting challenges, having to navigate the treacherous terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Chinese laborers played an instrumental role in this effort, enduring harsh conditions and discrimination while contributing significantly to the railroad's progress.

The Joining of the Rails

On May 10, 1869, the two lines finally met at Promontory Summit, Utah. This momentous occasion was marked by a symbolic ceremony, where a golden spike was driven into the final tie, signifying the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad.

The event was widely celebrated across the nation, and it heralded a new era of interconnectedness and economic growth.

Promontory Summit: A Place in History

Promontory Summit, Utah, holds a unique place in American history. It represents not only the culmination of a massive infrastructure project but also a tangible symbol of national unity and westward expansion.

While the original site has since been altered, the historical significance of Promontory Summit remains undiminished.

It continues to be a place of pilgrimage for those seeking to understand the transformative impact of the Transcontinental Railroad.

Transforming the Great Plains and the West

The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad had a profound impact on the Great Plains and the Western Territories and States. It opened up these regions to settlement and agriculture, leading to a rapid influx of population.

The railroad facilitated the transportation of crops, livestock, and manufactured goods, connecting these previously isolated communities to national and international markets.

However, this expansion also came at a cost, as it contributed to the displacement of Native American populations and the exploitation of natural resources.

The railroad enabled the efficient transportation of agricultural products, stimulating growth in farming communities.

The availability of affordable transportation options led to a surge in migration to the West, increasing the populations of territories and states along the railway lines.

Engineering Marvels: Technological Advancements and Infrastructure

[Connecting a Continent: The Transcontinental Railroad and Westward Expansion The relentless expansion of steam-powered railroads across 19th-century America did more than just lay tracks across the landscape; it paved the way for the rise of a new breed of entrepreneur: the railroad tycoon. These individuals, through shrewd business acumen, daring...]

But beyond financial ambition, the railroad revolution was fundamentally an engineering triumph, a testament to human ingenuity and the transformative power of technology. The very feasibility of cross-country rail travel hinged upon a cascade of interwoven advancements, each building upon the last to create a complex and increasingly efficient system.

Core Technologies of the Steam Age

At the heart of this revolution lay the steam engine, the prime mover that propelled locomotives across vast distances. However, the engine itself was merely the beginning. The entire system, from the locomotive design to the laying of tracks, underwent a constant process of innovation and refinement.

The Indispensable Steam Engine

The steam engine served as the fundamental power source for early trains. Converting thermal energy into mechanical work, it enabled locomotives to haul heavy loads over considerable distances. Its evolution, driven by continuous engineering improvements, significantly increased both efficiency and power output.

The Evolution of Locomotive Design

Early locomotive designs were rudimentary. Over time, they evolved into more sophisticated and powerful machines. Engineers constantly sought to improve traction, speed, and fuel efficiency through innovations like improved boiler designs, valve gears, and wheel arrangements. This continuous refinement was essential for handling the growing demands of both passenger and freight transport.

Railroad Tracks: The Foundation of the System

The standardization and expansion of railroad track systems were crucial for efficient operation. Early tracks, often made of wood or poorly manufactured iron, were prone to failure.

The shift to steel rails, coupled with standardized gauges, significantly improved the durability and reliability of the tracks, enabling faster speeds and heavier loads. This standardization also facilitated seamless connections between different railway lines.

Supporting Technologies for Safety and Efficiency

Beyond the core components, a suite of supporting technologies played a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the burgeoning railroad network. These innovations addressed critical needs, from increasing cargo capacity to preventing catastrophic accidents.

Rolling Stock: Increasing Capacity and Efficiency

The development of rolling stock, or train cars, was a constant process of innovation. Early cars were small and had limited capacity. Over time, they grew larger and were designed to carry a wider variety of goods, from raw materials to finished products. Specialization in car design led to specialized cars for refrigerated goods, livestock and fuels.

The Westinghouse Air Brake: A Revolution in Safety

One of the most critical safety innovations was the Westinghouse air brake. Prior to its invention, trains relied on manual braking systems, which were slow to engage and often ineffective, especially at higher speeds. The air brake allowed for simultaneous and controlled braking of all cars in a train, drastically reducing the risk of accidents.

Signaling Systems: Managing Traffic and Preventing Accidents

As train traffic increased, the need for effective signaling systems became paramount. Early systems were rudimentary, relying on visual signals.

Later, automated systems were developed. They provided constant feedback on train location and track conditions. These systems minimized the risk of collisions and ensured the smooth flow of traffic along increasingly congested rail lines.

The Fuel and Materials of Progress

The operation and construction of railroads were intrinsically linked to the availability of essential materials and fuel sources. Coal and wood fueled the steam engines, while iron and later steel formed the backbone of the tracks and rolling stock.

Access to these resources often dictated the routes and capabilities of the railroads, shaping the economic landscape along their path. The demand for these raw materials spurred growth in related industries, creating a ripple effect throughout the economy.

The Rise of Railroad Infrastructure

The growth of the railroad system necessitated a massive expansion of infrastructure. This included not only the tracks themselves but also bridges, tunnels, and stations, all requiring significant engineering expertise and capital investment.

The construction of these bridges and tunnels pushed the boundaries of engineering knowledge. Grand central stations became symbols of civic pride and transportation hubs that facilitated the movement of people and goods. They became integral parts of the cities they served.

Reshaping American Life: Railroads and Societal Transformation

The relentless expansion of steam-powered railroads across 19th-century America did more than just lay tracks across the landscape; it paved the way for profound societal shifts, irrevocably altering the fabric of American life. From standardizing time to revolutionizing transportation and supply chains, the railroad's impact extended far beyond mere economic gains.

The Advent of Standard Time

Before the railroads, local time reigned supreme. Each city and town operated on its own solar time, determined by the position of the sun.

This system, while functional for agrarian societies, became utterly untenable with the advent of rapid rail travel. The need for coordinated schedules to prevent collisions and ensure efficient operation quickly became apparent.

Train schedules simply could not function effectively with the thousands of differing local times across the United States. This logistical nightmare necessitated a standardized system of timekeeping.

In 1883, the major railroad companies adopted a system of four time zones across the continental United States. This initiative, although initially controversial, gradually gained acceptance and was formally adopted by the U.S. government in 1918.

The railroads, therefore, were the driving force behind the standardization of time, a change that impacted not only transportation but also commerce, communication, and daily life.

Revolutionizing Transportation and Mobility

The railroad dramatically altered the landscape of transportation and mobility. Prior to the railroad, travel was slow, arduous, and often limited by geography.

Steam-powered trains offered a faster, more reliable, and more affordable means of moving both people and goods across vast distances.

This newfound mobility had a profound impact on American society.

Families could more easily visit relatives in distant locations, and individuals could pursue economic opportunities far from their hometowns.

The railroad fueled migration and urbanization, as people flocked to areas with access to rail lines. The ability to transport goods quickly and efficiently spurred the growth of industries and markets.

Economic Growth and Market Integration

The railroad played a critical role in stimulating economic growth. By connecting disparate markets, the railroad facilitated the flow of goods and capital, leading to increased trade and investment.

Farmers could ship their crops to distant markets, and manufacturers could access raw materials and distribute finished products more efficiently.

The railroad effectively integrated the American economy, creating a national marketplace where goods and services could be exchanged with unprecedented ease.

This spurred industrial development, creating new jobs and opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The Rise of Complex Supply Chains

The efficient distribution of goods enabled by the railroads led to the development of complex supply chains. Manufacturers could rely on a steady stream of raw materials, and retailers could keep their shelves stocked with a wide variety of products.

This revolutionized the way businesses operated, requiring more sophisticated management and coordination.

The ability to move goods quickly and reliably also reduced inventory costs and improved efficiency.

Infrastructure Development and Spatial Transformation

The expansion of the railroad network spurred massive infrastructure development.

Miles upon miles of tracks were laid across the country, requiring the construction of bridges, tunnels, and stations.

These projects created countless jobs and stimulated economic activity in surrounding communities. The location of rail lines significantly influenced urban development.

Cities that were well-connected to the railroad network tended to grow and prosper, while those that were bypassed often stagnated.

Railroad stations became important hubs of activity, serving as gateways to new opportunities and destinations.

Taming the Rails: Regulatory Frameworks and Industry Oversight

[Reshaping American Life: Railroads and Societal Transformation The relentless expansion of steam-powered railroads across 19th-century America did more than just lay tracks across the landscape; it paved the way for profound societal shifts, irrevocably altering the fabric of American life. From standardizing time to revolutionizing transportation...]

As the railroads wove their way across the nation, their immense power began to raise concerns about fairness and control. The very factors that made them so valuable – their vast reach and essential services – also created opportunities for abuse. This led to growing calls for regulation, aimed at ensuring that the railroads served the public interest, not just their own.

The Imperative for Railroad Regulation

The need for regulation stemmed from the inherent monopolistic tendencies of the railroad industry. In many regions, a single railroad company held exclusive control over transportation, giving it the power to set rates and terms without competition. This often resulted in exorbitant prices, especially for farmers and small businesses who relied on the railroads to transport their goods to market.

The absence of regulation also led to discriminatory practices. Large corporations frequently negotiated secret rebates and preferential rates, placing smaller shippers at a significant disadvantage. Such inequities fueled public resentment and demands for government intervention.

The fundamental issue was one of fairness: ensuring that the railroads, as vital infrastructure, served all segments of society equitably. Without regulation, the economic power of the railroads threatened to undermine the principles of free markets and equal opportunity.

The Rise of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC)

Responding to growing public pressure, Congress passed the Interstate Commerce Act in 1887, a landmark piece of legislation that established the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC). This marked the first significant attempt by the federal government to regulate a major industry and address the perceived abuses of the railroad system.

Mandate and Initial Impact

The ICC was tasked with overseeing the operations of the railroads, ensuring that rates were "just and reasonable," and prohibiting discriminatory practices such as rebates. The Commission had the authority to investigate complaints, issue orders, and bring legal action against railroads that violated the Act.

However, the initial impact of the ICC was limited. The railroads, with their considerable legal resources, frequently challenged the Commission's decisions in court, often successfully. The courts narrowly interpreted the ICC's powers, restricting its ability to effectively regulate rates and practices.

Strengthening Regulatory Powers

Over time, Congress passed additional legislation to strengthen the ICC's authority. The Hepburn Act of 1906 gave the Commission the power to set maximum rates, subject to judicial review. The Mann-Elkins Act of 1910 further expanded the ICC's jurisdiction, granting it the power to regulate communication companies as well.

These legislative changes gradually enhanced the ICC's ability to oversee the railroad industry and address its monopolistic tendencies. While the Commission's effectiveness remained a subject of debate, its establishment marked a crucial turning point in the relationship between government and business in the United States. It set a precedent for future regulatory agencies and laid the groundwork for a more comprehensive system of economic oversight.

Legacy of Steam: A Nation Transformed

The relentless expansion of steam-powered railroads across 19th-century America did more than just lay tracks across the landscape; it paved the way for profound societal shifts, irrevocably altering the fabric of American economic, social, and technological life. As we reflect on this pivotal era, it becomes clear that the steam engine's impact extended far beyond mere transportation, shaping the very identity of the nation.

A Catalyst for Unprecedented Growth

The transformative power of steam-powered trains lies in their ability to catalyze unprecedented economic growth. By connecting disparate markets and facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people, the railroads ignited a period of rapid industrialization.

Industries such as coal, steel, and manufacturing experienced exponential growth, driven by the insatiable demand for materials and equipment to build and operate the expanding rail network.

The railroads effectively lowered transportation costs and broadened market access, enabling businesses to scale operations and fostering a more interconnected national economy.

Shaping Social and Cultural Landscapes

Beyond the economic sphere, the steam-powered train profoundly reshaped social and cultural landscapes. The ability to traverse vast distances in a fraction of the time previously required transformed perceptions of space and time.

Communities previously isolated by geographical barriers became integrated into a national network, fostering a greater sense of shared identity and purpose.

The standardization of time zones, necessitated by the coordination of train schedules, further homogenized the American experience, imposing a uniform temporal framework across the nation.

Technological Advancement and Innovation

The proliferation of steam-powered trains spurred a wave of technological advancement and innovation. The need for efficient and reliable transportation solutions led to breakthroughs in engineering, materials science, and manufacturing processes.

The development of improved braking systems, signaling technologies, and locomotive designs not only enhanced safety and efficiency but also laid the foundation for future innovations in transportation and other industries.

The scale of railroad construction projects also demanded new organizational and management techniques, contributing to the rise of modern business practices.

The Enduring Impact

In conclusion, the legacy of steam-powered trains in America is one of profound transformation.

These iron horses not only connected a continent but also fueled economic growth, reshaped social landscapes, and spurred technological innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's identity.

While the age of steam may have passed, its impact continues to resonate in the interconnected world we inhabit today.

So, next time you're stuck in traffic, maybe take a moment to appreciate how far we've come in transportation. It's easy to forget that the steam powered train helped this transportation system explode, connecting communities and fueling growth in ways that were unimaginable before. Pretty wild to think about, right?