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American History Tellers
Transcontinental Railroad | Hell on Wheels | 3
Nov 27, 2024
In the fierce competition of the 1860s, the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad put Central Pacific and Union Pacific workers against immense challenges. Chinese laborers battled harsh conditions and fought for better wages, while Union Pacific faced resistance from Plains Indians defending their lands. Political maneuvering played a crucial role in the race, with corporate greed leading to dangerous compromises in safety and worker welfare. The narrative unravels a dramatic tale of ambition, struggle, and cultural clashes in America's rail history.
38:52
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Quick takeaways
- The Central Pacific Railroad, to compete with the rapidly advancing Union Pacific, successfully lobbied for legislative changes to extend its construction efforts eastward.
- Chinese laborers faced horrific working conditions in the Sierra Nevada, exemplified by their 1867 strike for better wages, marking a significant moment of collective action.
Deep dives
The Central Pacific's Legislative Push
In 1866, the Central Pacific Railroad faced significant limitations due to federal legislation that restricted its ability to lay tracks beyond 150 miles into Nevada. Concerned about losing competition to the Union Pacific, which was making rapid progress, Central Pacific executives hired a lobbyist to advocate for amending the railroad bill. The lobbyist sought to remove mileage limits, arguing that equal opportunity for building tracks was essential for competition. Eventually, an amendment was passed, allowing the Central Pacific to construct its line eastward, turning the race between the two companies into a fierce competition for land and resources.
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