Answer:
The main reason why Leland Stanford and Thomas Durant wanted to build a transcontinental railroad was to make money. The construction of the transcontinental railroad presented a lucrative business opportunity for both Stanford and Durant, who were prominent businessmen during the 19th century.
Building a transcontinental railroad would provide Stanford and Durant with significant financial gains. The completion of the railroad would open up vast areas of the American West for settlement, trade, and economic development. It would facilitate the transportation of goods, resources, and people across the country, allowing for increased commerce and economic growth. As a result, Stanford and Durant saw the potential for substantial profits by investing in the construction and operation of the railroad.
By connecting the East Coast with the West Coast through a railway system, Stanford and Durant aimed to capitalize on the growing demand for transportation services. They recognized that a transcontinental railroad would greatly reduce travel time and costs, making it an attractive option for individuals and businesses alike. This increased accessibility would lead to an expansion of markets and trade opportunities, ultimately benefiting their financial interests.
Furthermore, Stanford and Durant understood that they could generate revenue from various sources related to the railroad. They envisioned income streams from ticket sales, freight charges, land sales along the railway route, and even potential partnerships with other businesses that would benefit from improved transportation infrastructure. By controlling key aspects of the rail network, they could establish monopolies or dominant positions in certain markets, further enhancing their profitability.
It is worth noting that while making money was the primary motivation for Stanford and Durant, there were also secondary reasons associated with their involvement in politics and locating gold and silver. However, these factors were not as central to their decision to build the transcontinental railroad as the pursuit of financial gain.
In terms of politics, Stanford did become involved in politics later in his career when he served as Governor of California and later as a United States Senator. However, his initial motivation for building the transcontinental railroad was primarily driven by economic considerations rather than political aspirations.
Similarly, while the discovery of gold and silver in the American West during the mid-19th century attracted many individuals seeking wealth, it was not the primary reason for Stanford and Durant's involvement in the railroad project. While the railroad did facilitate transportation to mining areas, their main focus was on the broader economic opportunities that a transcontinental railroad would bring, rather than specifically targeting gold and silver mining.
In conclusion, Leland Stanford and Thomas Durant wanted to build a transcontinental railroad primarily to make money. They recognized the potential for significant financial gains through increased trade, commerce, and transportation services. While there were secondary factors such as political involvement and access to mining areas, these were not as central to their motivations as the pursuit of financial profit.
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