Delaware and Raritan Canal

Definition

The Delaware and Raritan Canal is a man-made waterway in New Jersey that was built in the 19th century to transport goods between Philadelphia and New York.

Analogy

Think of the Delaware and Raritan Canal as a highway for boats, allowing them to bypass the long journey around New Jersey, much like how a shortcut on your GPS helps you avoid heavy traffic.

Related terms

Canal Age: This refers to the period of time when canals were the main mode of transportation for goods and people. It was during this time that many significant canals, including the Delaware and Raritan Canal, were constructed.

Industrial Revolution: This was a period from about 1760 to sometime between 1820 and 1840 when major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, transport, and technology had a profound effect on socioeconomic conditions. The construction of canals played an important role in this revolution.

Transportation Revolution: This term refers to the rapid growth in speed and convenience of transportation during the Industrial Revolution which included new methods such as canals, roads, ships, railroads etc.