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19th Century American Railroads

19th-century American railroads revolutionized transportation and commerce by enabling faster movement of people and goods across vast distances. They connected remote rural areas to industrial centers, fostering economic growth and westward expansion. Key developments included the construction of extensive networks, advances in engineering, and the creation of standardized time zones for scheduling. Railroads also played a crucial role in unifying the country culturally and politically. However, they also involved significant challenges, like labor disputes and environmental impacts. Overall, these railroads transformed America into a more interconnected and dynamic nation.