Ep 4. The Line

In season 1 episode 4 of Seven Wonders of the Industrial World, titled "The Line," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad in the United States during the 1860s. The episode discusses the incredible feat of connecting the eastern and western coasts of the country with a single railroad line, a task that was considered impossible by many at the time.

The episode begins with an overview of the history of transportation in the United States, highlighting the importance of rivers and canals for moving goods and people across the country. However, the expansion of the country during the 19th century led to a need for a faster and more efficient mode of transportation.

Viewers are introduced to the two companies responsible for building the railroad: the Central Pacific Railroad, tasked with building from Sacramento, California, eastward, and the Union Pacific Railroad, responsible for building from Omaha, Nebraska, westward. This enormous undertaking required thousands of railroad workers to lay tracks through mountains, deserts, and prairies, often in extreme weather conditions.

The episode also touches on the labor issues that plagued the construction of the railroad. The Central Pacific Railroad relied heavily on Chinese laborers, who faced discrimination and brutal working conditions. The Union Pacific Railroad, on the other hand, used primarily Irish immigrants, who also faced difficult working conditions and dangerous work environments.

As the two railroads approached each other, tensions mounted over who would lay the final spike to connect the two lines. Eventually, on May 10, 1869, a golden spike was driven into the ground at Promontory Summit, Utah, officially connecting the east and west coasts of the United States.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals showcasing the landscapes the railroad passed through, as well as the impressive engineering feats required to construct the line. Interviews with experts and historians also provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by the railroad builders and the impact that the completed Transcontinental Railroad had on American society and the economy.

Overall, "The Line" is a fascinating look at one of the most remarkable achievements in American industrial history and the people who made it possible. The episode does an excellent job of bringing the story of the Transcontinental Railroad to life and highlighting the incredible challenges faced by those involved in its construction. By the end of the episode, viewers will gain a deeper appreciation for the impact this railroad had on the United States and its people.