1863 – 1869
The building of the Transcontinental Railroad was a monumental project that connected the eastern and western United States. Completed in 1869, this railroad made cross-country travel faster and easier, boosting trade and settlement. Thousands of workers, including many Chinese immigrants, toiled under harsh conditions to lay the tracks. The project had a significant impact on Native American lands, leading to displacement and changes in their way of life. The railroad marked a turning point in American history, transforming transportation and commerce. You can find more books about westward expansion here.
Picture books
Ten Mile Day: And the Building of the Transcontinental Railroad
Exciting story of the final push to finish building the railroad
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Coolies
Inspiring story of two brothers overcoming hardships during the building of the railroad
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Across America on an Emigrant Train
Story of a real journey across America
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Chapter books
The Iron Dragon Never Sleeps
Story of a friendship between a miner girl and a boy working on the railroad
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The Great Railroad Race: The Diary of Libby West, Utah Territory, 1868
Fictional diary of a girl observing the race to finish the railroad
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My Name Is America: The Journal Of Sean Sullivan, A Transcontinental Railroad Worker
Fictional diary of a boy working on the railroad
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Building the Transcontinental Railroad: An Interactive Engineering Adventure
Choose-your-own-adventure book with stories focused on the engineering of the railroad
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Chinese Immigrants in America: An Interactive History Adventure (You Choose: History)
Choose-your-own-adventure style stories about Chinese immigration during the 1850s
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