National Road

Definition

The National Road, also known as the Cumberland Road, was the first major improved highway in the United States built by the federal government, stretching from Cumberland, Maryland, to Vandalia, Illinois. This road was crucial in connecting the eastern states with the western territories, facilitating westward expansion and trade. Its construction marked a significant shift in federal economic policy towards infrastructure development and played a key role in enhancing commerce and transportation across states.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The construction of the National Road began in 1811 and was completed in phases over several years, illustrating the growing commitment to federal infrastructure projects.
2. It significantly lowered travel times between the East and West, making it easier for settlers and traders to move goods and establish new markets.
3. The National Road facilitated the migration of people into the western territories, contributing to population growth and economic development in those areas.
4. The road was initially funded through federal appropriations and later supplemented by state funding as its importance became clear to local economies.
5. It served as a model for future transportation projects, influencing the creation of other major roads and highways across the country.

Review Questions

• How did the construction of the National Road reflect changes in federal economic policy during its time?
  • The construction of the National Road represented a significant shift in federal economic policy, moving towards a proactive role in infrastructure development. This marked a departure from earlier practices where states primarily managed their own roads. By investing in this major highway, the federal government acknowledged the importance of transportation for economic growth and national cohesion, laying groundwork for future infrastructure initiatives.
• Analyze the impact of the National Road on trade and commerce in early America.
  • The National Road greatly enhanced trade and commerce by creating a reliable route for transporting goods between eastern cities and western markets. It allowed for quicker travel times and reduced costs associated with shipping products over long distances. As a result, merchants were able to expand their markets beyond local regions, fostering economic interdependence among states and promoting overall growth in trade during this period.
• Evaluate how the National Road contributed to westward expansion and its long-term effects on American society.
  • The National Road played a pivotal role in westward expansion by providing essential infrastructure that enabled settlers to move into new territories more easily. This not only increased migration but also led to the establishment of new communities along its route. In the long term, this expansion contributed to significant demographic changes and economic development while also fueling conflicts over land use and resources between settlers and Native American tribes, shaping American society's trajectory in profound ways.

Related terms

Cumberland Road: Another name for the National Road, highlighting its origin point in Cumberland, Maryland, and its significance in U.S. transportation history.

Turnpike: A type of road that required users to pay a fee (toll) for access, often built by private companies, which played an important role in early American transportation.

Canals: Man-made waterways that facilitated the movement of goods and people, complementing roads like the National Road during the early economic growth of the United States.