Question

In the mid to late 1800s, the US government granted land to railroad companies to expand their networks. What is another way that railroad companies used the land?

Answer 1

They sold some of the land to farmers and ranchers.

Hope this helps you, and have a great day! :-)

Answer 2

The government of the United States contributed enormously to the development of railroads between 1860 and 1900. Because of the expenses involved in building a railroad, money needed to be collected in some way. Private banks were usually reluctant to loan money to these companies. Therefore, the solution was for the government to provide land grants to railroad companies.

These companies used the land in several different ways. Some was used to build their railroads. Other areas were sold in order to raise money for their projects. The sale of the land contributed to the settlement and development of the West.