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LOVASOA CROSS-CULTURAL COMPETENCE CENTER

Antsirabe,
MADAGASCAR

THE EVOLUTION OF THE MEANS OF

TRANSPORT
By VITASOA MAHALIANA Axel

December 2023

Teachers: Mr RALAMBOTIANA Fandresena Princis

Mr FANOMEZANIAVO Gaëtan
Mr ANDRIANOELY Eznaratiana
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ABSTRACT
This essay will explore the history of transportation that has spanned centuries. As civilization
developed, so did the complexity of transportation systems, with the introduction of boats,
carts and eventually trains and automobiles. After that, the advent of the hot air balloon and
later the airplane. It allows us to travel at unprecedented speeds and explore the world.

Looking towards the future, transportation is poised to undergo yet another transformative
period. The rise of electric and autonomous vehicles promises to make our roads safer and
cleaner. It also reduces our reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, the development of high
speed rail and hyperloop systems could dramatically cut down on travel times, making distant
destinations more accessible than ever before. Further advancements in technology, such as
drones and flying cars, are also on the horizon, offering new ways to navigate our cities and
move goods.

As we continue to innovate and develop new modes of transportation, it is important to

consider the impact they will provide. Balancing the need for sustainable and efficient
transportation with the desire for convenience and accessibility will be a key challenge for the
future of transportation.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I mainly want to thank God because without his will, nothing is possible. He gave me the
strength, courage, time and health necessary to finish this essay.
I would like to congratulate the bravery of the teachers of level 6 at Lovasoa Cross Cultural
Competence Center, Mr RALAMBOTIANA Fandresena Princis and Mr
FANOMEZANIAVO Gaëtan. They gave the best of themselves to pass on their knowledge to
us during this term. May God guide you in your job and your lives.
I would also like to express my special thanks to my tutor Mr ANDRIANOELY Eznaratiana
for the time and efforts he provided. His advices and comments were of great help to me.
Wish you the best and may God bless you.
To my family who have always been there to support me morally or financially: My dad, who
kept encouraging me in his own way and pushed me to give the best of me; My mom, who
never doubted on me and who was very understanding. I love you very much and thank you
for your unconditional support. I pray God to grant you a long and happy life.
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GLOSSARY
BC: Before Christ (The birth of Jesus Christ is supposed to be the year 0).

Eurasian: A person of mixed European and Asian descent.

Steam engine: It’s an external combustion engine in which heat is used to raise steam which
either turns a turbine or forces a piston to move p and down in a cylinder.

Locomotive: A wheeled vehicle consisting of a self-propelled engine that is used to draw

trains along railway tracks.

Waterway: A navigable body of water

Aqueduct: A conduct that resembles a bridge but carries water over a valley.

Steamship: A ship powered by one or more steam engines.

Glider: Aircraft supported only by the dynamic action of air against its surfaces

Dogfight: Fight between attack planes.

Jet engine: A gas turbine produces a steam on hot gas that propels a jet plane by reaction
propulsion.

Tax incentive: reduction of tax for encouraging a particular objective.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT ....................................................................................................................................3

AKNOWLEDGEMENT ..............................................................................................................4

GLOSSARY ....................................................................................................................................5

TABLE OF CONTENTS ..............................................................................................................6

INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................7

DEVELOPMENT
PART I: History of the different form of transportation ..........................................................8
I-Land transportation ................................................................................................................9
II-Water transportation ...........................................................................................................12
III-Air transportation ............................................................................................................. 13
PART II: Current and future trends of transportation..................................................................17
I- Current means of transport .................................................................................................18
II- Future thoughts of transportation .....................................................................................20

CONCLUSION .............................................................................................................................23

BIBLIOGRAPHY AND WEBOGRAPHY ........................................................................................................ 24

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INTRODUCTION
Did you know that transportation has over five thousand year history? Have you ever imagine
our life without all the different means of transport? What could our lives look like if our
ancestor didn't have the initiative to invent them? For a very long time, human beings have
continued to evolve and have sought to evolve over the years. The remains, the stories of all
the civilization that has succeeded in the world and even the current modernization in almost
all sectors are witnesses to this. Moreover, transportation, which is undoubtedly one of the
main witnesses of human evolution, is an area that needs to be talked about. It’s an integral
part of human civilization. Means of transport can be defined as devices used to transport
objects or people from one place to another. It facilitates the movement of people and goods
across vast distances. Over the course of history, the means of transport have undergone
remarkable evolution from the first primitive modes of travel to the most advanced and
efficient systems of today. It’s due to technological advancements and people’s needs. As we
know, before humans have been able to domesticate animals, the first form of transport was
walking. Some questions then arises, how has transport changed? How far transportation will
evolve and in which way? In order to answer those questions and learn more about
transportation, this essay will explore the fascinating story of transportation over thousands of
years and expectation of his evolution. The first part will talk about the different form of
transport with their chronological timeline. Then the second part will talk about the current
trends and future thoughts of transportation.
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PART I: HISTORY
OF THE
DIFFERENT FORM
OF
TRANSPORTATION
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As known, there are three modes of transport: transportation by land, by water and by air.
Countless experimentation has been done through years that guide to the evolution of this
kind of transport.
I. Land Transportation
1. Transportation Before Christ

Starting from the land transportation, the first significant development of the transport history
was around 4000 BC; the domestication of several animals like camels, horses and even
donkeys. The goal was using them to transport heavy things. It was very efficient for the
travel and trades. 500 years after, humans created the first wheels. It was invented in Iraq and
made by wood. This important invention was used to create animal traction like carriages and
horses. The wheel revolutionized the way goods were transported. In 2000BC, the first chariot
was built by the Andronovo or Sintashta cultures on the Eurasian steppe. In 1500 BC, the
wheel was also used in Egypt, where it was attached to chariots for warfare and
transportation.

2. The impact of The Industrial Revolution

The industrial revolution had also a big impact on transportation. This period took place
between the 18th and the 19th centuries. One of the most significant transportation
innovations of this period was the steam engine. It was invented by James Watt in 1769 and
was initially used to pump water out of mines. However, it was soon adapted for use in
locomotives. The steam locomotive was invented by George Stephenson in 1814. It
revolutionized transportation by making it faster.

Figure 1
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The invention of the bicycle in 1817 also played a role. The first bicycle was developed by a
German inventor Karl von Drais. The name of this machine was Swiftwalker. It had no
pedals, the frame and the wheels were made of wood with iron rims and tires were covered by
leather. The bicycle was initially seen as an innovation, but it soon became popular as a
means of transportation for both leisure and work. The development of the safety bicycle in
the late 19th century made the bicycle more accessible and safer to ride. According to
Wikipedia, the number of bicycle in use nowadays is around two billion.

Figure 2
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Another important innovation during the industrial revolution was the development of
railroads. The first public railway, the Stocktonand Darlington Railway, was built in England
in 1825. The railway network quickly expanded, with the construction of the Liverpool and
Manchester Railway in 1830. The railway allowed for faster and more efficient transportation
which was crucial for the development of the industrial economy.
The first practical car with a gas engine was made by two Germans Gottlieb Daimler and
Karl Benz in 1886. Horseless carriage was the term used at this time. It was a three-wheeled
vehicle that was powered by a four-stroke gasoline engine. The car had a top speed of about
10miles per hour and could travel up to 100 miles on a single tank of gas. The development of
the car led to the growth of the automobile industry, which became one of the most important
industries in the world. There are 1.474 billion cars in the world nowadays; which means his
importance and his popularity worldwide.

Figure 3

Figure 4
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II. Water Transportation

Water transportation has been an integral part of human history, dating back to the earliest
civilizations. It is one of the oldest forms of transportation, and it has evolved significantly
over time. The invention of water transportation revolutionized the way people traveled,
traded, and interacted with one another.
1. Water transportation Before Christ
The earliest form of water transportation was likely canoes and rafts, which were used by
early humans to cross rivers and navigate through waterways. These primitive vessels were
often made from materials like wood, animal hides, and reeds. They were lightweight and
easy to maneuver, making them ideal for short distances.
As civilizations grew, so did the need for more efficient and larger vessels. The Egyptians
were among the first to develop sophisticated water transportation systems in 3500 BC. T hey
built large boats called sambuks that were used for transporting goods, people, and even the
pharaohs themselves. The Greeks also made significant contributions to water transportation,
developing the trireme, a fast and maneuverable warship.
The Romans were perhaps the most advanced civilization when it came to water
transportation. They built a vast network of canals and aqueducts that allowed them to
transport goods and people across long distances. The Roman navy was also highly advanced,
with ships like the "corvus" and the "liburnian" playing a key role in their military conquests.
During the middle Ages, water transportation remained an important means of transportation,
but it was largely limited to rivers and canals. The development of the cog and the carrack,
two types of ships, allowed for longer journeys and greater capacity for trade.
The Age of Exploration saw a significant expansion of water transportation, with explorers
like Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama relying heavily on ships to navigate the
world's oceans. The development of the caravel, a fast and maneuverable sailing ship, allowed
explorers to venture further into the unknown.
2. The impact of the Industrial Revolution
In the modern era, by the help of the industrial revolution, water transportation has continued
to evolve, with the advent of steamships and, more recently, container ships. The first
Steamboat was built in 1807 by American inventor Robert Fulton. The first motor powered
ship was invented in the early 1900s. Today, water transportation is a vital part of the global
economy, with ships carrying goods across the world's oceans and rivers.

Figure 5
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Now let’s talk about air transportation.

III. Air Transportation

Air transportation is a relatively new mode of transportation compared to water and land
transportation. It has a rich history that dates back to the late 18th century when humans first
started experimenting with flying machines. The development of air transportation has
revolutionized the way people travel and has had a profound impact on the global economy
and culture.
1- 1789: The First Hot Air Balloon
The first recorded attempt at manned flight was made by the Montgolfier brothers in France
in 1783. They launched a hot air balloon that carried a sheep, a duck, and a rooster to an
altitude of about 1,500 meters. This was the beginning of a long journey towards the
development of air travel.

Figure 6
2- The invention of Aeroplane
In the early 19th century, Sir George Cayley designed and built the first successful glider,
which was able to carry a human pilot. His design laid the foundation for modern aircraft. The
first powered flight took place in 1903 when the Wright brothers successfully flew a plane
for 12 seconds. This event marked the beginning of the aviation era.

Figure 7
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3- Air transportation in the World War I

During the First World War, air transportation played a crucial role in military operations.
Airplanes were used for reconnaissance, bombing, and even dogfights. The development of
fighter planes and bombers led to the creation of the first air forces.
After the war, air transportation began to be used for commercial purposes. The first
commercial airline, KLM, was established in the Netherlands in 1919. The first transatlantic
flight took place in 1919 when a British pilot named Alcock and Brown flew from
Newfoundland to Ireland in a Vickers Vimy aircraft.

Figure 8
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4- The development of jet engine

The development of jet engines in the 1940s revolutionized air transportation. The first
commercial jet, the De Havilland Comet, was introduced in 1952. This aircraft was faster and
more efficient than its propeller-driven predecessors, making long-distance flights more
accessible to the public.
In the 1970s, air travel became more affordable due to the introduction of low-cost carriers
and the deregulation of the airline industry. This led to a surge in the number of people
traveling by air.
Today, air transportation is an integral part of civilization and the number of airplane in use
counts 28 674 (aircraft) and 5 161(grounded airplane).

Figure 9
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As we move forward into the future, it is clear that these

trends will continue to shape the way we travel and the
impact we have on the environment. The trends of
transportation are constantly evolving as technology
advances and the world becomes more interconnected.
In recent years, there has been a shift towards
sustainable, eco-friendly modes of transportation, as
well as an increase in the use of autonomous vehicles
and ride-sharing services.
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PART II: CURRENT

AND FUTURE
TRENDS OF
TRANSPORTATION
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When people are talking about future thoughts of something, knowing the present and the
under way is primordial before.
I- Current means of transport
1- Electric vehicles
One of the most notable trends in transportation is the push towards Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Governments around the world are implementing policies to encourage the adoption of EVs,
such as tax incentives and the installation of charging stations. Consumers are also becoming
more aware of the benefits of EVs, including reduced emissions and lower operating costs. As
a result, the number of EVs on the road is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

Figure 10

2- The autonomous vehicles

Another trend in transportation is the development of autonomous vehicles. Self-driving cars,

trucks, and even buses are being tested and implemented in various parts of the world. The
goal of autonomous vehicles is to improve safety, reduce traffic congestion, and increase
efficiency. While there are still challenges to overcome, such as ensuring the reliability and
accuracy of the technology, the potential benefits are driving significant investment in this
area.

3- Ride-sharing services

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have also become increasingly popular in recent
years. These services allow users to share rides with others, reducing the number of vehicles
on the road and reducing congestion. They also provide a convenient and affordable
alternative to owning a personal vehicle, particularly in urban areas.
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4- Another trends

In addition to these trends, there is also a growing interest in alternative modes of

transportation, such as bicycles, scooters, and public transportation. As cities become more
densely populated and urban sprawl continues, there is a need for more efficient and
sustainable ways to get around. Bike-sharing programs and the expansion of public
transportation systems are just a few examples of how cities are working to meet this need.

5- What are they focused on?

Overall, the trends in transportation are focused on sustainability, efficiency, and

convenience. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative
solutions emerge to address the challenges of transportation in the 21st century. The future of
transportation is likely to be characterized by the continued development of sustainable, eco-
friendly modes of transportation, as well as the integration of autonomous vehicles and
advanced technologies.

Figure 11

If those are the current trends of transportation, what are the future thoughts of inventors?
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II- Future thoughts of transportation

1- Maglev trains

Maglev trains, or magnetic levitation trains, use magnetic forces to lift and propel trains above
the tracks, reducing friction and allowing for faster speeds. The Shanghai Maglev Train, for
instance, can reach speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph), making it the fastest commercial
train in the world. Maglev trains are also much quieter than traditional trains, making them
more comfortable for passengers.

Figure 12

2- Flying taxis

Flying taxis, or Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, are a type of electric aircraft
that can take off and land vertically, much like a helicopter. They are designed to be used for
short-distance travel within cities, reducing traffic congestion and travel time. Companies like
Uber and Airbus are currently developing prototypes of flying taxis.

Figure 13
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3- Driverless car

Driverless cars, or autonomous vehicles, use a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial
intelligence to navigate roads without human input. They have the potential to reduce traffic
accidents, improve fuel efficiency, and make transportation more accessible to people with
disabilities. Tesla, Waymo, and other companies are already testing driverless cars on public
roads.

Figure 14

4- Delivery drones

Delivery drones are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) that are designed to deliver packages
and other items to customers. They can fly at high speeds and can navigate through tight
spaces, making them ideal for deliveries in cities. Amazon, Google, and other companies are
already using delivery drones in some areas.

Figure 15
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5- Hyperloop

Hyperloop is a high-speed transportation system that uses a sealed tube through which a pod
can travel at speeds of up to 1,200 km/h (750 mph). The system uses magnetic levitation to
propel the pod through the tube, making it faster and more efficient than traditional trains.
Companies like Hyperloop One and Virgin Hyperloop are currently developing hyperloop
technology.

Figure 16
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CONCLUSION
The history of transportation is a fascinating tale of human ingenuity and innovation. From
the invention of the wheel to the creation of the first airplanes, humans have always sought
faster, safer, and more efficient ways to travel. Today, we are witnessing the dawn of a new
era in transportation, with the development of emerging technologies like maglev trains,
flying taxis, driverless cars, delivery drones, and hyperloop.
These innovations have the potential to revolutionize the way we travel, reducing travel time,
improving efficiency, and increasing safety. For instance, maglev trains can reach speeds of
up to 431 km/h (268 mph), while flying taxis can take off and land vertically, reducing traffic
congestion in cities. Driverless cars can improve fuel efficiency and make transportation more
accessible to people with disabilities. Delivery drones can navigate through tight spaces and
deliver packages faster than ever before. And hyperloop can transport passengers at speeds of
up to 1,200 km/h (750 mph), making long-distance travel more feasible.
It is likely that we will see even more advancements in transportation technology. For
example, scientists are exploring the possibility of supersonic flight, which could reduce
travel time between cities even further. Additionally, researchers are working on developing
electric aircraft and other forms of sustainable transportation to reduce our carbon footprint.
The way transportation has changed is the sign of human evolution. People in the past did
their best to find the most efficient way of transportation. Inventors are far away from the last
mean of transport.
The history of transportation has been marked by constant evolution and innovation. As we
continue to develop and adopt new technologies, it is likely that we will see even more
dramatic changes in the way we travel in the future. Maglev trains to flying taxis, driverless
cars to delivery drones, and hyperloop to supersonic flight, the possibilities for the future of
transportation are truly endless.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY AND WEBOGRAPHY

BIBLIOGRAPHY

WEBOGRAPHY
https://custom-writing.org/blog/essays-on-transportation-tips-and-topics

https://www.eurowag.com

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https://www.thecollector.com/history-of-chariots-cultures-types

https://www.twinkl.com/teaching-
wiki/transportation#:~:text=From%20horses%20to%20the%earliest,BC%20%2D%20River%
boats%20are%20invented

https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/future-transportation/

https://www.wikipedia.com

https://books.google.mg/books?id=QLPDgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&hl=fr&source=gbs_ge_
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