First Electric Streetcar Line Opens

On June 29, 1883, Werner von Siemens demonstrated the first operational electric streetcar line in the Berlin suburb of Lichterfelde. Powered by overhead lines at 180 volts, the small two-axle cars carried passengers along a 1.5-mile route, proving electric traction's superiority over horses and steam. This innovation overcame skepticism about safety and efficiency, paving the way for widespread urban electrification. Siemens' work directly influenced subway and tram development worldwide, reducing urban pollution and enabling larger cities. The event marked the birth of modern electric rail transit.