Railroad Development

The federal government gave land and made loans to the railroad companies. Why was the government so eager to promote the growth of railroads?

The Government was eager to promote the growth of the railroads because they were very important in settling the west and developing the country.  The transcontinental railroad (which spanned across the U.S.), was completed in 1869 and was very helpful in settling the west.  Many immigrants were hired to work on the railroad because they were willing to work for a very small amount of money.  Even though they worked under horrible conditions, they didn't have any better opportunities.  The railroads helped develop the west by assisting in making towns, markets and created many opportunities.