The present day cities of albany and new york were first part of what colony

Albany and New York were part of the colony of the Dutch Republic denominated New Netherland, during the 17th century. This colony was founded under Dutch ruling due to the settlements that arose after arrival of the explorer Henry Hudson in the region in 1609, who was sponsored by the Dutch East India Company.

In 1664 the English gained control over the former territory of the New Netherland colony, that was renamed New York. The city that was formerly called New Amsterdam, became New York City and the city of  Beverwijck was renamed as Albany.

Short version its New Netherland

Explanation:

the american rail road was the most influential and useful transportation system developed in the 1800's with steam locomotives and in the very late 1800's and early 1900's diesel electric locomotives being used to transport goods and people around the newly expanded united states!

d) in the state of iowa