TLDR: Barges are flat-bottomed boats used to transport bulk goods on rivers and canals. They are usually pushed or towed by other boats and have a long history dating back to ancient times.

Barges are a type of boat that is designed to transport large quantities of goods, such as coal, grain, or construction materials, on rivers and canals. They have a flat bottom, which allows them to navigate shallow waters, and they are typically long and narrow in shape. Barges do not have their own means of propulsion, so they are either pushed or towed by other boats, such as tugs or pusher boats.

The term "barge" has a rich history and can refer to different types of boats. The word itself comes from the Old French word "barge," which originally referred to any small boat. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved, and it became associated with flat-bottomed boats used for transportation. In Great Britain, for example, a merchant barge was a flat-bottomed vessel used on navigable rivers. These barges often had sails and were used to transport goods.

In the United States, barges underwent a transformation in the 19th century. They were no longer sailing vessels but were instead created by cutting down larger sailing ships. These barges were often used to transport goods on rivers and canals and played a significant role in the country's industrial development.

Today, barges are still used for transporting goods, especially low-value bulk items. They are cost-effective and can carry large quantities of cargo. Barges can be found on rivers and canals all over the world, and they continue to play an important role in the transportation industry.

In summary, barges are flat-bottomed boats used for transporting bulk goods on rivers and canals. They are typically pushed or towed by other boats and have a long history dating back to ancient times. Barges are still used today for transporting goods in a cost-effective manner.