Answer :
Final answer:
Railroads were crucial for transporting raw materials and manufactured goods, connecting agricultural and manufacturing regions and supporting national expansion. They greatly improved trade efficiency and were vital in the transportation revolution of the 19th century. Hence, the answer is railroads.
Explanation:
Importance of Transportation in History
Good transportation was essential for moving raw materials to mills and factories, and for distributing manufactured goods to shops for sale. It played a significant role in connecting the agricultural regions with the manufacturing areas, facilitating trade and economic growth. Among the options provided, railroads were major catalysts in this development during the 19th century, as they enabled faster and more efficient movement of goods and people, contributing significantly to the nation’s expansion and economic success.
In contrast, while steamships (option B) were also important for transportation, railroads provided a comprehensive network that profoundly altered the landscape of commerce and trade. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is D. Railroads.
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