Economy of Trans Mississippi West Essay Example

was hindered by the railroads, although they initially aided it. Tracy, as a reporter, interviewed numerous farmers to gather their views and data about the impact of railroads and reconstruction on them. Furthermore, the farmers were threatened by high freight rates, which became burdensome. Additionally, they were subjected to the oppressive control of money lenders and loan sharks, plunging them further into debt and making it impossible for them to afford the exorbitant interest rates on their loans.

“The emigrants, anticipating a Mississippi Riverboat, anticipated political equality, freedom from violence, and homesteads in Kansas”. Many people saw the reconstruction as a disappointment. The reconstruction not only transformed the economy but also the land itself. “Hills vanish and cease to exist... the desolation that remains is irreversible and shocking”. However, some people found that the Trans-Mississippi Riverboat reconstruction brought them numerous advantages. “The grasshoppers... have vanished, and the fields are flourishing with abundance”.

Furthermore, farmers can rely on a yearly net return ranging from eight to ten dollars per acre. It remains a fact that numerous individuals who began with only a small number of cattle a few years ago have now amassed great wealth, and in certain cases, become millionaires. Overall, the reconstruction had provided limited advantages for farmers and continued to bolster the assets of those in the western regions. Despite the various benefits and opportunities that the land in the West offered, farmers and Native Americans were oppressed and pushed to their limits. They endured the loss of possessions, properties, and their dignity.

Powerful individuals with economic and political influence accumulated even more power while the westerners suffered significant

losses and were subjected to theft. The Western region, once known as a land of opportunities, transformed into a place where the less fortunate were exploited by the powerful. In addition to the existing documents, I propose including a perspective from a politician to provide insight into the benefits that the western lands brought to those in positions of power. I am interested in hearing their opinions on whether they utilized their supremacy to oppress the westerners and seize their lands, as described by the farmers and Native Americans.