SOURCE: [The Greenwich Village Society, 1825]
The Erie Canal
"This great work will immortalize the present authorities of New York, will bless their descendants with wealth and prosperity, and prove to mankind the superior wisdom of employing the resources of industry in works of improvement."
-Thomas Jefferson
Thesis
The Erie Canal was immensely instrumental in the formation of America’s national identity. The 363 mile canal explored a trade route across the Empire State, and advancements in new technology. The creation of the canal encountered political controversy and vast construction complications. Despite these complications, it increased the exchange of goods, people, and ideas across the diversifying nation, resulting in the transformation of New York City into a major seaport, and the development of numerous cities along the route. The Canal decreased transportation times between the eastern seaboard and the Western interior by 95%, stimulating westward expansion and bolstering America’s Economy.
The Erie Canal was immensely instrumental in the formation of America’s national identity. The 363 mile canal explored a trade route across the Empire State, and advancements in new technology. The creation of the canal encountered political controversy and vast construction complications. Despite these complications, it increased the exchange of goods, people, and ideas across the diversifying nation, resulting in the transformation of New York City into a major seaport, and the development of numerous cities along the route. The Canal decreased transportation times between the eastern seaboard and the Western interior by 95%, stimulating westward expansion and bolstering America’s Economy.