Unethical Practices and Railroad History

The video discusses the construction of the transcontinental railroad, completed in 1869, which reduced travel time across the U.S. from five months to ten days. The Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads were built by Irish, Civil War veterans, and Chinese laborers. The Ames brothers, who led the Union Pacific, were involved in corrupt practices but were never punished. A granite pyramid in Wyoming stands as a memorial to them.

What was the primary impact of the transcontinental railroad's completion in 1869?

• It made travel more expensive.

• It reduced travel time from five months to ten days.

• It increased travel time across the country.

• It was completed in just one year.

Which groups were primarily responsible for laying the tracks for the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads?

• Native Americans and African Americans

• Mexican immigrants and European settlers

• Prisoners and indentured servants

• Irish immigrants and Chinese laborers

Where did the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads meet after seven years of construction?

• Sacramento, California

• Omaha, Nebraska

• Promontory, Utah

• Cheyenne, Wyoming

What does the granite pyramid in southern Wyoming commemorate?

• Oakes and Oliver Ames

• The laborers who built the railroad

• The meeting point of the two railroads

• The completion of the transcontinental railroad

What unethical actions were Oakes and Oliver Ames involved in?

• They stole land from Native Americans.

• They embezzled funds from the Union Pacific.

• They made underhanded deals with congressmen.

• They sabotaged the Central Pacific railroad.

What happened to the Ames brothers after their unethical practices were exposed?

• They were imprisoned.

• They were fined heavily.

• They were never punished.

• They fled the country.

What is the current state of the memorial built for the Ames brothers?

• It stands isolated in the dust.

• It has been demolished.

• It is part of a bustling city.

• It is a popular tourist attraction.