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Railroads

Definition

A mode of land transportation where vehicles are directed by fixed rails (tracks), which are typically made out of steel. Railroads played a crucial role in industrialization by facilitating faster movement of goods and people across long distances.

Related terms

Industrialization: The process by which an economy transforms from primarily agricultural production into one based on manufacturing goods.

Transcontinental Railroad: A railway line that crosses a continent from coast to coast, significantly reducing travel time across vast distances.

Steam Locomotive: A type of railroad vehicle powered by steam engines; they were instrumental in driving the expansion of rail networks during the 19th century.

"Railroads" appears in:

Subjects (2)

AP European History
AP US History

Study guides (3)

AP World History: Modern - 5.10 Continuity and Change in the Industrial Age
AP World History: Modern - 6.4 Global Economic Development from 1750 to 1900
AP World History: Modern - 7.1 Shifting Power After 1900

Practice Questions (6)

How did technology like railroads specifically impact colonies abroad during this era?
How did the expansion of railroads impact societies during the Industrial Revolution?
What was a significant impact of railroads on societies during the Imperial Age?
Which of the following best describes the impact of railroads on industrialization in the early 20th century?
Which statement best describes the differing effects of railroads on Russia versus India during the 19th century?
In what way did railroads dramatically reshape societies during the Industrial Revolution?

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