Transcontinental Railroad History and Impact

The video discusses the westward expansion in the United States, focusing on the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. It highlights the challenges faced by workers, the significance of the locomotive, and the impact of the railroad on transportation and commerce. The narrative includes personal stories, such as that of Ling Way, a Chinese immigrant who contributed to building the railroad.

What was the primary reason for building the Transcontinental Railroad?

• To replace the Pony Express

• To create more jobs for immigrants

• To improve local transportation within cities

• To connect the East and West coasts of the United States

What nickname was given to the steam-powered locomotive?

• Iron Horse

• Steam Giant

• Steel Dragon

• Metal Beast

What was the main advantage of the steam engine over horses?

• It was faster and more powerful

• It was cheaper to maintain

• It required less fuel

• It was easier to operate

What does the term 'Transcontinental' mean in the context of the railroad?

• Over the ocean

• Between two countries

• Within a city

• Across the continent

What was the role of Ling Way in the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad?

• He was the chief engineer

• He designed the steam engine

• He funded the construction

• He helped lay tracks as a worker

Which two companies were responsible for building the Transcontinental Railroad?

• Baltimore and Ohio

• Northern and Southern Pacific

• Union Pacific and Central Pacific

• Eastern and Western Railways

What was one of the main challenges faced by workers during the construction of the railroad?

• Building in extreme cold temperatures

• Crossing large bodies of water

• Dealing with frequent earthquakes

• Drilling tunnels through the Sierra Nevada mountains

Why did the US government require the two rail companies to join their tracks?

• To create more jobs

• To save on construction costs

• To reduce competition

• To ensure a continuous rail line across the country

What was the significance of the golden spike ceremony?

• It was the first use of gold in construction

• It was a competition between two rail companies

• It marked the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad

• It celebrated the invention of the steam engine

How did the Transcontinental Railroad impact trade in the United States?

• It limited trade to only the East Coast

• It had no significant impact on trade

• It increased the cost of goods

• It made transportation of goods faster and cheaper