Civil War
Railroads demonstrated strategic importance during the Civil War by moving troops, weapons, food and supplies. Control of rail junctions and repair of damaged lines could influence military campaigns.
World wars
During both world wars, railroads carried enormous volumes of military personnel, equipment and industrial output. Wartime demand tested the capacity of the national rail network.
Railway Mail Service
For generations, postal clerks sorted mail aboard moving trains, allowing letters and packages to be processed while traveling between cities.
Migration
Passenger trains helped Americans relocate for jobs, military service and new opportunities. Rail travel played a role in major population movements, including the Great Migration of Black Americans from the South to northern and western cities.
From essential service to changing modes
As automobiles, airlines and trucking expanded, railroads lost much of their former dominance in passenger travel and mail, while remaining crucial to freight transportation.
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