Robert Fulton

The moment I saw the effect of the steam engine, I felt that I had discovered the means of giving to the world a new and important mode of navigation.

I have never been one of those who are afraid of new inventions, or who think that what has been done is all that can be done.

The great object of my life has been to improve the means of communication and transportation, and thereby to unite mankind in the bonds of peace and commerce.

The utility of a thing is the only true measure of its value.

I consider the steamboat as one of the greatest blessings that has ever been bestowed upon mankind.

Perseverance is the key to all success.

It is not the finest house, or the richest furniture, but the best-regulated family that makes the happiest home.

The man who is afraid to make a mistake will never make a discovery.

I have no other object than to be useful to my country and to mankind.

The progress of improvement is slow, but it is sure.

To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk.

The power of steam is irresistible, and its application to navigation will change the face of the world.

I have always found that the more I worked, the more I succeeded.

The true inventor is one who sees a need and finds a way to fill it.

My object is to make the steamboat so common as to be within the reach of every man.

It is by repeated trials and experiments that we arrive at perfection.

The greatest pleasure I have is in seeing my inventions useful to the public.

Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.

The public will always be slow to adopt new ideas, however beneficial they may be.

I have been called a madman, a fool, and a dreamer, but I have never doubted the ultimate success of my endeavors.