Embark on a journey across time and terrain to explore how steam, steel, and speed forged a nation. This course traces the dramatic rise of the railroad from its earliest, clunky steam engines to the expansive, iron networks that conquered a continent. We will delve into the monumental saga of the Transcontinental Railroad, examining the incredible engineering feats and the immense human effort that bridged the nation. We will discover too how these "iron horses" transformed American transportation, spurred westward expansion, and defined the heyday of rail travel, before exploring the fascinating, rapid shift in the transportation landscape that ultimately led to the decline of the passenger train.

Subject: history

Michael Stevens has a PhD in literature from the University of Dallas and has taught American literature and various writing courses in Grand Rapids for more than 25 years.  With a passion for uncovering the fascinating stories behind the rise of railroads and their broader influence, he invites students to explore this pivotal chapter in American history.