Answer the following question in paragraph form (5-7 complete sentences). Be sure to check your grammar and spelling, Describe the development of the railroad industry after the Civil War, and explain the effects of this industry on economic development in the second half of the 1800s.

The transcontinental railroad provided a means of fast transportation. it cut a 6 month trip into 6 days, created jobs for many people and encouraged immigration. the homestead act played a huge role in western expansion; it allowed settlers to begin a fresh start, and gave them land in exchange for their residence for up to five years and a small fee.