Transcontinental Railroad Flashcard

Front

What was one of the biggest impacts of the Transcontinental Railroad on America's West?

Back

It led to the industrialization and settlement of the West.

Front

How long did it typically take to travel across the Plains and Rocky Mountains before the Transcontinental Railroad?

Back

About 6 months.

Front

What was the first transcontinental rail line in the Americas?

Back

The Panama Railway.

Front

Which U.S. President ratified the Pacific Railroad Act?

Back

Abraham Lincoln.

Front

What were some of the challenges faced by travelers taking a steamship from New York to San Francisco before the Transcontinental Railroad?

Back

Malaria and tropical fevers from the jungle.

Front

Who was the main proponent of the transcontinental Railway?

Back

Asa Whitney

Front

Which route was considered the shortest and easiest option for the transcontinental Railway? Options: Central route from St. Louis to California via the Great Salt Lake, Northern route from the Mississippi and Missouri rivers to the Columbia River, Route from Memphis through the Rocky Mountains to Los Angeles, Southern route from New Orleans across Texas to San Diego

Back

Southern route from New Orleans across Texas to San Diego

Front

What was a significant factor that increased interest in building a railroad to the Pacific after the Mexican War? Options: Opposition from Southern Senators, Support from Native American tribes, Construction of the Panama Canal, Discovery of gold

Back

Discovery of gold

Front

What was one of the main problems with the central route for the transcontinental Railway?

Back

It crossed areas inhabited by war-prone Native Americans

Front

Which Act implicitly repealed the Missouri Compromise Act of 1820 regarding slavery?

Back

Kansas-Nebraska Act