Railroad Beginnings
When did the first American trains appear?
1830s
Where did the Central Pacific start building? (City, State)
Sacramento, California
Which immigrant group mainly worked for the Union Pacific?
Irish immigrants
When did the two companies meet to complete the railroad? (Eaxct date)
May 10, 1869
How much did the railroad reduce the cross-country journey?
From months to weeks
What was the main problem with traveling coast-to-coast before the railroad?
It took months by wagon or dangerous sea routes.
Where did the Union Pacific start building?
Near the Iowa-Nebraska border
Which immigrant group was essential for Central Pacific through the Sierras?
Chinese workers
What was the meeting point called?
Promontory Summit, Utah
How did the railroad improve the movement of goods and supplies?
Faster, safer, more efficient transportation
Which act authorized the building of the transcontinental railroad? (Include the year)
Pacific Railroad Act (1862)
Why did the companies compete instead of coordinating?
They were paid per mile of track laid.
What dangers did workers face blasting tunnels?
Explosions, falling rocks, extreme heights
What material was the original commemorative spike made of?
Solid gold
How did the railroad affect westward expansion?
Brought settlers and resources into the West rapidly
Who was the civil engineer who surveyed possible routes through the West?
Theodore Judah
Which terrain slowed the Central Pacific to only 100 miles by 1867?
Sierra Nevada Mountains
How were Chinese workers lowered down cliffs to drill holes?
In baskets on ropes
How was the completion announced?
Telegraphers sent messages across the country.
How did Native American life change due to the railroad?
Their traditional way of life ended
Why was Congress hesitant to approve the railroad before the Civil War?
It was very expensive and controversial during wartime.
How did Native American resistance impact Union Pacific construction?
Attacks on workers, derailing trains, stealing equipment
Why was maintaining a workforce difficult for both companies?
Low pay, dangerous conditions, competition with gold/silver mining
What phrase was engraved on the golden spike?
“May God continue the unity of our Country as the Railroad unites the two great Oceans of the world.”
How did the railroad influence the economy of western towns?
Allowed towns and businesses to grow, connecting East and West markets