Question

Which of the following developments helped increase agriculture during the western expansion?

A) Introduction of the steel plow
B) Discovery of fossil fuels
C) Expansion of the railroad network
D) Implementation of crop rotation

Answer 1

The introduction of the steel plow and the expansion of the railroad network were key developments that increased agriculture during western expansion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the notable developments that helped increase agriculture during the western expansion was the introduction of the steel plow. This advancement, particularly James Oliver's improved "chilled plow" of the late 1860s, was better suited for the tough Midwestern terrain, making it easier for homesteaders to cultivate the land. Additionally, the expansion of the railroad network played a crucial role by enabling the transport of farming supplies and the distribution of agricultural products. While crop rotation has long been known to enhance agricultural yield by maintaining soil fertility, it was not a direct technology advance that spurred the initial agriculture increase during western expansion as much as the steel plow and the railroad. The question can be answered as:

• A) Introduction of the steel plow