Railroad Development

The federal government gave land and made loans to the railroad companies. Why was the government so eager to promote the growth of railroads?

The federal government gave land and made loans to the railroad companies for several reasons. One of these was the railroads provided a way to link the country. This was important because it provided the transportation needed for people to go out West and settle the land the government offered. Also, the railroad allowed for the transportation of beef and other goods to both coasts of the nation. This provided the food necessary to feed the growing number of immigrants in the country. Furthermore, the railroads provided a means to get the natural resources to the major cities that allowed for the production of electricity and the construction of skyscrapers. In addition, the railroads gave the means to create and support the economic boom in the country and the government liked the growing industrial power of the nation and did not want to hinder it. Moreover, railroads provided jobs for many people, even if the jobs were terrible and under paying. The railroads couldn't exist without the governments help, and the government needed them so its no surprise that the government provided the help needed.