Student Question
How did land and water transportation affect westward expansion?
Quick answer:
Land and water transportation advancements, like post roads, railroads, and canals, significantly boosted westward expansion by facilitating migration and trade. The Erie Canal opened access to fertile Northwestern lands, while the 1869 transcontinental railroad connected the coasts, making travel and cargo transport faster and cheaper, thereby attracting settlers and enhancing commerce.
The developments in land and water transportation, such as the construction of post roads, railroads, and canals, contributed greatly to westward expansion in the United States. The transport systems facilitated the migration of more people to the west. For instance, the Erie Canal, which was opened in 1825, gave access to Northwestern lands such as Ohio and Illinois. Settlers were attracted to the region because it was fertile. More people moved to Northern California to pursue wealth after gold was discovered in 1849 and later to Nevada after the discovery of silver.
The transport systems also enhanced trade by connecting the entire country. The transcontinental railroad of 1869, for example, interlinked the country from one coast to the other, making the transportation of people and cargo faster and cheaper.
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