The map shows North America's transportation and railway system in 1887. A map showing North America's transportation and railway systems in 1887. The expansion of the North American railway and transportation system in the second half of the nineteenth century resulted in an increase in both international and domestic trade of goods and services throughout the United States. was solely the product of government planning and investment. led to increased competition in a variety of industrial markets due to reduced barriers to trade. was the result of high levels of foreign financial investment from Asian governments wishing to trade in the United States.