This title examines an important historic event – the transcontinental railroad. Easy-to-read, compelling text explores the events surrounding the planning, construction, and completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States, key people involved, and its impact on society. Features include a table of contents, a timeline, facts, additional resources, Web sites, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Essential Events is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.