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Erie Canal

Definition

The Erie Canal was a canal that connected the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, stretching from Albany, New York to Buffalo, New York. It was completed in 1825 and played a crucial role in transforming transportation and trade in the United States during the 19th century.

Analogy

Think of the Erie Canal as a superhighway for boats. Just like how highways connect different cities and states, the Erie Canal connected the Great Lakes region with the east coast, allowing goods and people to travel efficiently between these areas.

Related terms

Canal System: A network of man-made waterways designed for navigation or irrigation purposes.

Transportation Revolution: A period of rapid expansion and improvement in transportation infrastructure that occurred in the early 19th century, including advancements in roads, canals, steamboats, and railroads.

Inland Waterways: Navigable rivers, lakes, and canals used for transportation within a country or region.