What was the main source of fuel for people living between 1776 and 1867?

coal

Explanation:

coal came in to use as a major and energy source during the industrial revolution of the 170os 1800s. during this period, steam-powered engines with coal-fueled boilers were used to power ships in trains. the outbreak of the U. S. Civil War led to call replace in charcoal as a fuel source for steel furnaces.