Robert Fulton: A Pioneer of Steam Navigation Born: Little Britain, Pennsylvania (November 14, 1765) Died: February 24, 1815 Nationality: American Early Life and European Pursuits Fulton's early life was marked by a fascination with mechanics and invention. At age 12, he became interested in steam engines after visiting William Henry of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He moved to Philadelphia at the age of 14 where he worked as a portrait painter and studied engineering. In 1786, Fulton traveled to Europe, carrying letters of introduction from prominent Philadelphians. He spen…