may 10, 1869 - Transcontinental Railroad Complete

Description:

The Transcontinental Railroad was completed on May 10, 1869, when the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads joined their rails at Promontory Summit, Utah Territory, marked by the driving of the famous "Golden Spike." This monumental achievement connected the eastern U.S. rail network with California, greatly facilitating westward expansion, reducing travel time across the continent from months to about a week, and promoting trade and settlement.

Added to timeline:

Date: