Which of these statements best describes how trade in New Mexico was affected by the opening of the Santa Fe Trail and the arrival of the First Transcontinental Railroad?
A.
The amounts of goods that were bought and sold in the state remained about the same.
B.
The amount of goods that were sold in the state increased slightly.
C.
The amount of goods that were bought and sold in the state increased significantly.
D.
The amount of goods that were bought in the state increased slightly.
To determine which statement best describes how trade in New Mexico was affected by the opening of the Santa Fe Trail and the arrival of the First Transcontinental Railroad, we can analyze the historical context and economic impact of these developments.
The Santa Fe Trail, which opened in 1821, provided a direct trade route between Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. This enabled goods to be transported more easily, leading to an increase in trade between these regions. The trail facilitated the exchange of goods such as manufactured products, food, and livestock.
The First Transcontinental Railroad, completed in 1869, connected the eastern and western coasts of the United States. This development revolutionized transportation and trade, allowing for faster and more efficient movement of goods. With the railroad's arrival, New Mexico gained a direct connection to the national rail network, improving access to distant markets and increasing the potential for trade expansion.
Taking these factors into account, the most accurate statement would be:
C. The amount of goods that were bought and sold in the state increased significantly.
The opening of the Santa Fe Trail and the arrival of the Transcontinental Railroad both provided substantial opportunities for trade expansion in New Mexico. The increased accessibility and efficiency of transportation enabled a larger volume of goods to be bought and sold, leading to significant growth in trade within the state.