The steam engine was first effectively invented by Thomas Newcomen in 1712. His engine, known as the atmospheric steam engine, was primarily used to pump water out of mines. Newcomen's design involved a piston and was the first widely used steam engine for practical purposes. Before Newcomen, Thomas Savery invented a steam-powered device in 1698 intended to raise water from mines, but it was not a true engine with moving parts like Newcomen's. Further significant improvements were made later by James Watt in 1765, who enhanced the efficiency and introduced rotary motion, enabling broader industrial uses. In summary:
- Thomas Savery created an early steam pump in 1698.
- Thomas Newcomen invented the first practical steam engine with a piston in 1712.
- James Watt made major improvements in 1765, enhancing efficiency and usability.
Therefore, the steam engine as we consider it was effectively invented in 1712 by Newcomen, with earlier and later contributions marking its development stages.