Westward Expansion Test

What was the main purpose of the Transcontinental Railroad?

• To connect the East and West coasts of the United States
• To provide jobs for immigrants
• To transport goods only
• To create a new route for the military

Which two companies were responsible for building the Transcontinental Railroad?

• Union Pacific and Central Pacific
• Southern Pacific and Northern Pacific
• Union Pacific and Southern Pacific
• Central Pacific and Eastern Pacific

What challenges did the Central Pacific face during construction?

• Harsh weather conditions
• Blasting through mountains
• Lack of workers
• Native American attacks

Why did the U.S. government support the building of the Transcontinental Railroad?

• To increase travel time
• To encourage settlement in the West
• To reduce the cost of goods
• To improve communication

What was one way the railroad companies earned money while building the railroad?

• By charging travelers for tickets
• By selling land next to the tracks
• By receiving government loans
• By collecting taxes from settlers

What was Sitting Bull known for?

• His bravery in battle
• His skills in farming
• His ability to trade
• His talent in art

What was the main reason American settlers moved west during the 1800s?

• To find gold
• To search for land and opportunity
• To escape from the law
• To spread their culture

What is one major characteristic of the Great Plains?

• Mountains
• Flat land
• Forests
• Rivers

What was a major reason people moved to California in 1849?

• To escape the cold weather
• To find gold
• To start a new school
• To visit family

What was one reason people wanted to move west after the Civil War?

• To find new jobs
• To escape crowded cities
• To claim free land
• All of the above