What innovation greatly improved the transportation of goods across the country?

Railroads significantly transformed the transportation of goods across the country, especially during the 19th century. The development of an extensive railroad network allowed for the efficient movement of both raw materials and finished products over long distances. Unlike previous modes of transportation, railroads could carry a vast volume of cargo at a much faster pace and with greater reliability, regardless of weather conditions. This innovation not only connected distant regions but also facilitated the growth of industries and commerce by enabling producers to reach larger markets and consumers to access goods more easily.

The impact of railroads on the economy was profound. They reduced travel time for goods from weeks to days or even hours in some cases, which contributed to the expansion of trade and enhanced economic interdependence across the nation. Additionally, the construction of railroads stimulated job creation and the development of surrounding infrastructure, such as towns and service industries.

Other modes of transportation, such as airplanes, automobiles, and trucking, came later and had their own sets of advantages. However, during the peak period of railroad expansion, they could not surpass the scale and efficiency of rail transport in moving bulk goods across the country.