did the railrosds reach shreveport before or after the discovery of oil at caddo lake?

Alba -- what does your book say?

http://www.caddohistory.com/railroads.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caddo_Lake#History

To determine whether the railroads reached Shreveport before or after the discovery of oil at Caddo Lake, we can follow these steps:

1. Research the history of the railroads in the Shreveport area.
2. Research the timeline of the discovery of oil at Caddo Lake.

By combining information from both sources, we can determine the sequence of events.

1. Begin by searching for historical records or books that detail the development of railroads in Shreveport. This could include websites, archives, or local history libraries. Look for information on the opening or construction of railroad lines that connected to Shreveport.

2. Similarly, search for reputable sources on the discovery of oil at Caddo Lake. This could involve researching historical accounts, books, or articles that describe the oil exploration and production in the region.

3. Analyze the information from both sources and cross-reference dates. Look for any documented evidence that indicates when the railroads reached Shreveport and when the discovery of oil at Caddo Lake occurred. This could involve studying primary sources, such as newspaper articles or official reports, as well as secondary sources written by historians or experts.

4. Compare the dates. If the railroads reached Shreveport prior to the discovery of oil at Caddo Lake, you can conclude that the railroads were present before the oil was found. Conversely, if the discovery of oil predates the arrival of railroads, you can conclude that the oil was discovered before the railroads reached Shreveport.

By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can ascertain whether the railroads reached Shreveport before or after the discovery of oil at Caddo Lake.