Why were waterways such as rivers and canals important to the nation in the early 19th century?
Select one:
A. They provided the first hydroelectric dams and thus powered our first cities.
B. They were most easily defended as our naval ships could be moored at their entrances to protect against invasion.
C. They provided water so that herdsmen could keep large herds of cattle in areas that might not otherwise support this industry.
D. They were the easiest means of transportation, used by farmers, herders, and others to get their products to market.
Answer (2)
The waterways were the first "interstate highway" system, important to transportation. In some places, if none existed, man-made canals were dug, such as Erie Canal all the way across New York State. Choice 'd'.
In the early 19th century, waterways such as rivers and canals were essential for transportation and economic growth in the United States. They allowed efficient movement of goods and facilitated trade between agricultural and manufacturing regions. The chosen answer is D: "They were the easiest means of transportation, used by farmers, herders, and others to get their products to market."
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