Westward Expansion: Economic Development (Topic 6.2)

Front

What was the impact of government investment in transportation and communication systems after the Civil War?

Back

It helped connect different regions of the nation, create new markets, and facilitated the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad.

Front

What was the Transcontinental Railroad?

Back

A massive railroad project completed in 1869 that linked the East and West coasts of the United States, facilitating trade, commerce, and settlement of the American West.

Front

How did the Transcontinental Railroad impact the economy?

Back

It spurred the growth of industries like steel, coal, and manufacturing, provided jobs, and led to the growth of towns and cities along the railway.

Front

What was the significance of the California Gold Rush of 1848?

Back

It was the first significant mining boom in the West, attracting a large influx of people to California in search of gold.

Front

What challenges did individual prospectors face during the mining boom?

Back

Mining became too expensive for average miners, requiring deep shafts and costly equipment, leading to the takeover by large corporations.

Front

What was the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882?

Back

A U.S. law that suspended Chinese immigration for ten years, driven by anti-Chinese sentiment and economic competition.

Front

What was the Homestead Act of 1862?

Back

Legislation offering 160 acres of public land free to families settling on it for five years, encouraging farming on the Great Plains.

Front

How did innovations like barbed wire and refrigerated railroad cars impact agriculture?

Back

They boosted productivity by allowing large areas of land to be fenced and perishable goods to be transported and stored.

Front

What was the Grange movement?

Back

A fraternal organization for farmers founded in 1867 to resist monopolistic practices and unite farmers.

Front

What was the Ocala Platform?

Back

A set of political initiatives established by farmers' alliances in 1890, calling for direct election of senators, lower tariffs, a gradual income tax, and more.