Question

How did the Transcontinental Railroad impact life?

1) Briefly describe the primary source in Document 4.
2) What clues in the illustration show that the railroad workers were unprepared for the attack?
3) Look closely at the background. What clues show that the Native Americans had little chance of stopping the railroad?
4) Why are the Native Americans reacting this way?
5) According to Doc 4, what was one effect of building the Transcontinental Railroad?
6) Provide evidence from the document to support your answer to the previous question.

Answer 1

The Transcontinental Railroad had a significant impact on life in America, facilitating trade and economic growth, promoting westward expansion, providing job opportunities, and impacting the lives of Native Americans.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Transcontinental Railroad had a significant impact on life in America. Here are some ways it influenced various aspects:

1. It facilitated the movement of people, goods, and ideas across the country, connecting the East and West coasts. This led to increased trade and economic growth.
2. The railroad brought settlers to the West, leading to the expansion of towns and cities and the development of industries like mining and agriculture.
3. It provided job opportunities for people, including immigrants who sought work in the construction and operation of the railroad.
4. For Native Americans, the railroad threatened their way of life as it disrupted buffalo migration patterns and encroached on their lands. It led to conflicts and displacement.
5. The railroad helped to unify the nation and promote a sense of national identity.