The Transcontinental Railroad Explained: US History Review

The video explores the transcontinental railroad, built from 1863 to 1869, highlighting its impact on travel, economy, and society. It discusses pre-railroad travel challenges, the economic nationalism that facilitated its construction, and the labor forces involved, including Chinese and Irish immigrants. The railroad's completion led to standardized time zones, improved communication, and economic growth, but also sparked xenophobia and legislative actions like the Chinese Exclusion Act. The railroad symbolized national unity post-Civil War and had significant effects on farmers and the national economy.

What was the primary challenge of traveling across the United States before the transcontinental railroad?

• Expensive toll roads

• Long and dangerous journeys

• Hostile wildlife

• Lack of maps

Which government act provided financial incentives for the construction of the transcontinental railroad?

• Homestead Act

• Sherman Antitrust Act

• Pacific Railroad Act

• Interstate Commerce Act

What was the main labor force used by the Central Pacific Railroad during its construction?

• African American slaves

• Native Americans

• Chinese immigrants

• Irish immigrants

Which group primarily worked on the Union Pacific Railroad?

• Chinese immigrants

• Mexican laborers

• Italian immigrants

• Irish immigrants

What significant change did the transcontinental railroad bring to timekeeping in the United States?

• Digital clocks

• Standardized time zones

• Introduction of daylight saving time

• 24-hour clock system

What was one of the socio-political effects of the transcontinental railroad on Chinese immigrants?

• Expansion of voting rights

• Formation of labor unions

• The Chinese Exclusion Act

• Increased citizenship rights

How did the transcontinental railroad impact the agricultural sector in the United States?

• Introduction of organic farming

• Decrease in farming land

• Monopolization of transport prices

• Increased crop diversity