What replaced horse-drawn methods of transportation for firefighting equipment in the 1800s?

The transition from horse-drawn methods of transportation for firefighting equipment in the 1800s primarily involved the introduction of steam-powered pumps. These pumps allowed fire departments to move away from reliance on horses not only for transportation but also for the actual pumping of water. Steam-powered technology significantly increased the efficiency and effectiveness of firefighting efforts, as these pumps could deliver water more rapidly and effectively than previous methods.

Steam-powered pumps required a boiler to generate steam, which then powered pistons to create pressure that propelled water through hoses and onto the fire. This advancement marked a pivotal moment in firefighting history, enabling firefighters to tackle larger blazes more effectively than before. Fire departments began to adopt these vehicles, demonstrating the transition from manual and equine-powered equipment to steam-driven machinery.

Motorized vehicles and electric trucks were developments that came later, following the initial adoption of steam-powered technology. Hand-pulled carts, while an improvement on completely horse-drawn methods, did not sufficiently replace horses in terms of the advancements offered by steam power. Therefore, steam-powered pumps stand out as the correct answer due to their significant impact on firefighting techniques and efficiency during that period.