Final answer:
The transcontinental railroad ended California's isolation, integrated it into the national economy, brought thousands of immigrants, and fostered an industrial culture. However, it did not bankrupt the Big Four rail tycoons. The correct option is A. it ended California's "splendid" isolation
Step-by-step explanation:
Effects of the Transcontinental Railroad on California
All of the following were effects of the transcontinental railroad on California EXCEPT it bankrupted the Big Four. The completion of the transcontinental railroad indeed ended California's "splendid" isolation by facilitating better connectivity with the rest of the country.
It played a pivotal role in integrating California into the national economy, allowing for the transport of goods and resources central to economic exchange.
Moreover, the railroad led to a wave of immigration, as people from various parts of the globe, including thousands of immigrants from China and other territories, arrived seeking opportunity and contributing to the state's ethnic diversity.
As a result of these changes, California began to build and support an industrial culture, a departure from its historically rural, agrarian economy.
Contrary to one of the options listed, it did not bankrupt the Big Four, who were the railroad magnates that capitalized on the construction and were well compensated; they were not bankrupted by this enterprise. The correct option is A. it ended California's "splendid" isolation