The Cultural History of Mexican Railroads: 1876-1910: The Mexican Experience

The construction of railroads in Mexico during the period of 1876 to 1910 was a significant event in the country's history. This article explores the cultural, economic, and political effects of this development.

The Civilizing Machine: A Cultural History of Mexican Railroads, 1876-1910 (The Mexican Experience)

by Michael Matthews

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13791 KB
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Economic Impact

The construction of railroads had a profound impact on the Mexican economy. Before the advent of railroads, transportation in Mexico was slow and expensive. Goods were transported by pack animals or by boat, and the cost of transportation was a major barrier to trade. Railroads made it possible to transport goods much more quickly and cheaply, which led to a significant increase in trade and economic growth. Railroads also opened up new areas of the country to development, and they played a major role in the growth of the mining, agriculture, and manufacturing industries. Railroads also helped to integrate the Mexican economy with the global economy, as they made it possible to export Mexican goods to other countries and to import foreign goods into Mexico.

Political Effects

The construction of railroads also had a significant impact on Mexican politics. Before the advent of railroads, the Mexican government was weak and centralized. The country was divided into a number of isolated regions, and communication between the capital and the provinces was difficult and time-consuming. Railroads made it possible to centralize the Mexican government and to extend its authority over the entire country. Railroads also helped to create a national identity, as they allowed Mexicans from different regions to travel and interact with each other.

Social Change

The construction of railroads also had a significant impact on Mexican society. Railroads made it possible for people to travel more easily, and the increased mobility led to a greater exchange of ideas and culture. Railroads also made it possible for rural communities to connect with urban centers, which led to a greater urbanization of Mexico's population. The construction of railroads also led to the development of a new working class, as thousands of Mexicans were employed in the construction and operation of the railroads.

The construction of railroads in Mexico during the period of 1876 to 1910 was a significant event in the country's history. Railroads had a profound impact on the Mexican economy, politics, and society. Railroads helped to integrate Mexico into the global economy, centralize the Mexican government, and create a national identity. Railroads also led to a greater exchange of ideas and culture, and they played a major role in the urbanization of Mexico's population. The construction of railroads in Mexico was a major factor in the country's development, and it continues to have a significant impact on Mexican society today.

The Civilizing Machine: A Cultural History of Mexican Railroads, 1876-1910 (The Mexican Experience)

by Michael Matthews

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13791 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	339 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE