How Did Railroads Changed America's Economy

278 Words2 Pages
The invention of railroads changed America's economics because it allowed for high volume of goods to be transported. The cost of traveling and shipping was also much cheaper. Before railroads, people would travel by boat for about $1,500. When railroads began their operation, the cost drastically reduced to $150. Traveling the railroad was more comfortable and people were not as susceptible to contact yellow fever that was rampant. Railroads allowed for the growing industries in the northeast to ship goods out west as the expansion was occurring. Railroads also expedited the amount of time it took to transport people and goods. As the railroad expanded so did small towns and markets. Through stores and advertising in catalogs, people were