American History Tellers Transcontinental Railroad | Dancing with a Whirlwind | 2
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Nov 20, 2024 In 1863, Thomas Durant exploited his position to siphon funds while overseeing the Union Pacific Railroad. Meanwhile, labor challenges arose for the Central Pacific, relying on immigrant workers to navigate treacherous terrains. The construction faced fierce competition and brutal conditions, with conflicts from Native Americans and harsh weather. Innovation emerged from adversity, particularly as Chinese workers found solutions through perilous conditions. This turbulent era showcases the intersection of greed, struggle, and resilience behind America’s transcontinental railroad.
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Personal Gain over Progress
- Durant prioritized personal gain over the railroad's progress by ordering surveys on land he owned, infuriating Chief Engineer Peter Day.
- Day felt Durant's focus on personal investments hindered the project and showed a lack of genuine commitment.
Credit Mobilier Scheme
- Durant founded Credit Mobilier, a sham company, to inflate construction costs and pocket government funds.
- This scheme ensured personal profit regardless of the railroad's completion, revealing Durant's corrupt intentions.
The Oxbow Detour
- Durant further exploited government funding by ordering an unnecessary nine-mile detour, increasing profits for Credit Mobilier.
- This blatant disregard for efficiency led to Peter Day's resignation, highlighting Durant's corrupt practices.