An increase in railroad mileage in an area led to great economic growth in that area. Between 1870 and 1890, which area had the greatest increase in railroads and, as a result, the most significant economic growth?
A. New England
B. the South
C. Western states and territories
D. the middle states
Answer (2)
Calculate the increase in railroad mileage for each area between 1870 and 1890.
England: 4494 − 2507 = 1987
Middle States: 10964 − 3202 = 7762
Southern States: 11192 − 2036 = 9156
Western States and Territories: 24587 − 1276 = 23311
Pacific States and Territories: 1677 − 23 = 1654
Identify the area with the largest increase: Western States and Territories.
The area with the greatest increase in railroads and economic growth is \boxed{Western states and territories}.
Explanation
Problem Analysis We are given a table showing railroad mileage in different areas of the US at various times. The problem asks us to determine which area experienced the greatest increase in railroad mileage between 1870 and 1890, implying that this area also had the most significant economic growth during that period.
Solution Strategy To solve this, we need to calculate the increase in railroad mileage for each area between 1870 and 1890. The area with the largest increase will be our answer.
Calculating Mileage Increases Let's calculate the increase for each area:
England: 4494 − 2507 = 1987
Middle States: 10964 − 3202 = 7762
Southern States: 11192 − 2036 = 9156
Western States and Territories: 24587 − 1276 = 23311
Pacific States and Territories: 1677 − 23 = 1654
Identifying the Largest Increase Comparing the increases, we find that the Western States and Territories had the largest increase in railroad mileage between 1870 and 1890, with an increase of 23,311 miles.
Final Answer Therefore, the area with the greatest increase in railroads between 1870 and 1890, and thus the most significant economic growth, is the Western States and Territories.
Examples
The growth of railroads in the 19th century significantly impacted economic development. For example, understanding which regions experienced the most substantial growth in railroad infrastructure helps us analyze where and why economic booms occurred. This is applicable in modern urban planning when deciding where to invest in transportation infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. Knowing how railroad expansion correlated with economic growth in the past can inform decisions about highway, airport, and public transit investments today, optimizing resource allocation for maximum economic impact.
The Western States and Territories had the greatest increase in railroad mileage between 1870 and 1890, with an increase of 23,311 miles. This substantial growth in railroad infrastructure led to significant economic growth in that region during this period. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Western states and territories.
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