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Explain two of the following: - The importance of the expansion of the railroads for settlement in the West - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
Explain two of the following: - The importance of the expansion of the railroads for settlement in the West. - The importance of gold prospecting for conflict with ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain two of the following: - The importance of the expansion of the railroads for settlement in the West - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
The importance of the expansion of the railroads for settlement in the West.
Answer
The expansion of the railroads was crucial for the settlement in the West as it facilitated easier and quicker access for settlers. The Pacific Railroad Act funded the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, which connected the eastern states with the West. This drastically reduced travel time and costs, encouraging more people to move westward in search of land and opportunity. Additionally, it promoted trade and economic growth by linking previously isolated areas with markets.
Moreover, the establishment of the railroad provided a structured system for the transport of goods and resources, enhancing settlement viability. The federal government also played a key role by granting land to railroad companies, which prompted the selling of land to settlers. This significantly contributed to the American expansionist movement, reinforcing the idea of Manifest Destiny.
Step 2
The importance of gold prospecting for conflict with the Plains Indians.
Answer
The discovery of gold in the West led to significant conflicts with Plains Indians as prospectors and settlers encroached on their traditional lands. The gold rush attracted thousands seeking fortune, which resulted in large migrations into regions inhabited by Native Americans. This not only disrupted their way of life but also sparked tensions between the two groups.
The mining activities often disregarded treaties such as the Fort Laramie Treaty, as prospectors crossed into lands designated for the Plains Indians. This encroachment led to violent confrontations and wars, such as the Red Cloud’s War. The influx of settlers and the competition for resources intensified conflicts, fundamentally altering the dynamics between settlers and Native Americans.