AP World History: Modern

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Railways

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AP World History: Modern

Definition

Railways refer to a system of tracks on which trains run, revolutionizing transportation during the Industrial Age. They played a crucial role in the movement of goods and people, greatly enhancing trade and contributing to urbanization. The introduction of railways also fueled industrial growth by providing efficient means for transporting raw materials and finished products.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The first full-scale working railway steam locomotive was built by George Stephenson in 1814, marking the beginning of railway transport.
  2. Railways dramatically reduced travel time, making it possible to transport goods over long distances more quickly than ever before.
  3. By linking cities and regions, railways facilitated not only commerce but also the movement of people, contributing to the growth of urban centers.
  4. The expansion of rail networks often led to economic booms in regions as they became more accessible for trade and labor.
  5. Railways also had a significant impact on social structures, as they created new jobs in construction, operation, and maintenance while transforming daily life through increased mobility.

Review Questions

  • How did railways transform the economy during the Industrial Age?
    • Railways transformed the economy by providing a faster and more efficient means of transporting goods and raw materials. This connectivity allowed for markets to expand beyond local boundaries, facilitating trade on a much larger scale. Additionally, railways supported industrial growth by ensuring that factories had timely access to necessary resources, while also enabling finished products to reach consumers swiftly.
  • Discuss the social implications of railway expansion in the context of urbanization during the Industrial Age.
    • The expansion of railways played a significant role in urbanization by connecting rural areas to urban centers. This made it easier for people to migrate to cities in search of jobs, leading to rapid population growth in urban areas. As cities expanded due to this influx, new social dynamics emerged, including changes in labor markets and the rise of new social classes associated with industrial work.
  • Evaluate how railways influenced political developments during the Industrial Age and their long-term effects on society.
    • Railways influenced political developments by fostering national integration and facilitating communication across vast territories. Governments recognized the strategic importance of rail networks for defense and economic power, often investing heavily in their expansion. Over time, this led to more centralized governance and planning. The long-term effects included enhanced mobility for citizens, increased commerce, and shifts in power dynamics as regions became interconnected, shaping modern nation-states.
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