A Quick Look at Progress

Progress is an interesting phenomenon. Often times, it seems so slow as to be imperceptible. Then, upon further inspection, the forward movement seems quite profound. Back in the 1800s, international trade was made possible by, at the time, traditional, slow-moving ships. These vessels, generally, were sturdy, yet built more for endurance rather than speed. They were the "norm" when it came to moving goods from one continent to another. Around 1840, clipper ships were introduced by a handful of American entrepreneurs who believed speed was the key to enabling them to significantly increase their profit margin in the trade business. They were right. Their vision proved to be one major reason why the United States became a major player on the international scene.

In terms of advancement, clipper ships were not unlike the telegraph. This revolutionary communication device made it possible for information to be shared in rapid-time like never before. Rather than having to wait for weeks or even months before learning of some major development such as the result of a presidential election or conflict between warring countries, the telegraph enabled folks to be updated on regional or even national happenings in quick-time. The telegraph was an amazing technological advancement that helped bring people from various geographic locations much closer together. The same was true of the clipper ship.

What these two innovations had in common was the fact they introduced speed to the populace. Because of them, people could receive needed goods just as they could receive desired and useful information much more quickly. As we now know, there was no turning back once these forms of progress were introduced. We also know, however, neither one eliminated conflict or disputes between peoples and/or nations. Progress, though welcomed, does not always and automatically mean greater congeniality or smoother collaboration.