Transcontinental Railroad and Westward Expansion Flashcard

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What is the Transcontinental Railroad?

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A railroad that connected the eastern U.S. to the western U.S., completed in 1869, facilitating westward expansion.

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Who was Thomas Edison?

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An American inventor known for inventing the light bulb and many other devices.

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What was the Model T Ford?

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The first mass-produced, affordable automobile, introduced by Henry Ford in 1908.

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What does the term 'Gilded Age' refer to?

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A period in U.S. history (late 19th century) marked by economic growth, but also by social inequality.

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Who primarily built the Transcontinental Railroad?

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Many of the workers were immigrants, particularly from China and Ireland.

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What challenges did workers face while building the railroad?

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Hazardous mountain regions, harsh weather, and difficult terrain made construction slow and dangerous.

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What is westward expansion?

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The movement of settlers and immigrants from the eastern U.S. to the western territories.

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What role did the government play in the construction of the railroad?

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The government provided land grants and financial support to railroad companies.

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What is a land grant?

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A gift of land from the government to individuals or organizations, often used to encourage development.

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What impact did the railroad have on trade?

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It significantly reduced travel time and costs, boosting trade and commerce across the country.