What effect did improvements in transportation have on american settlements in the early- to mid-1800s? a.) settlements stayed the same, but people took more trips using the railroads. b.) americans began to settle along railroad tracks out in the west. c.) people and goods traveled by road in covered wagons. d.) improved transportation meant freight had to follow rivers or canals.

The correct answer is A. Settlements stayed the same, but people took more trips using the railroads. The transport developments that occurred determined an increase in the speed of travel, the number of trips could be increased and thus increase the diffusion of products throughout the country. Which allowed the economy to grow faster and get bigger.

During the 1800's, transportation in the form of railroads improved trading and selling of goods and services in the U.S. The railways created major cities along their route and allowed not only goods, but people to go west.

Farming in the west was important during this time period. Before railroad systems, people usually lived, worked, and farmed close to the coastal areas, so travel and shipment of goods was easier. Railroads changed that. Traveling via train was easy and cheaper.