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The Golden Spike: Connecting California to the Nation — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.1.3-5
D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.14.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging U.S. history reading passage teaches students about the Golden Spike and how the first transcontinental railroad connected California to the rest of the nation. Students will learn about the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads, the workers who built them, and the impact this achievement had on American growth and unity in the late 1800s. The passage is structured with clear, simple language for developing readers and includes a glossary, timeline, Spanish translation, and historical activities. Aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, this resource encourages students to explore cause and effect, analyze historical events, and build vocabulary. Includes a relevant public domain image, read aloud audio, and multiple activities for a comprehensive learning experience.

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[Driving of the Golden Spike at Promontory Pt., Utah - May 10, 1869].
Source: Library of Congress

On May 10, 1869, the Transcontinental Railroad was completed at Promontory Summit, Utah. This event was called the Golden Spike ceremony. It marked the first time a railroad connected the East and West coasts of the United States.

Before the railroad, travel across the country was very difficult and slow. People had to travel by wagon, horseback, or ship. Journeys could take months and were often dangerous. The government wanted a faster and safer way to cross the country. In 1862, the Pacific Railway Act was passed. This law gave two companies, the Union Pacific and the Central Pacific, the job of building the railroad.

The Union Pacific started building from Omaha, Nebraska, heading west. The Central Pacific began in Sacramento, California, and worked east. Workers faced many obstacles. They had to cross mountains, deserts, and rivers. They used dynamite to blast tunnels through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Many workers were immigrants from China and Ireland. Their hard work and bravery made the railroad possible.

After years of building, the two railroads finally met at Promontory Summit. On May 10, 1869, leaders from both companies and many workers gathered for a special celebration. A gold spike, called the Golden Spike, was hammered into the final rail. This spike was not just a piece of metal. It became a symbol of unity and progress for the country.

The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad changed America. People and goods could now travel coast to coast in just days, not months. The railroad helped towns grow, created new jobs, and brought people together. It also made it easier to send mail and supplies.

The Golden Spike ceremony was a national celebration. Newspapers wrote about it, and people across the country cheered. The event showed what Americans could do by working together. The railroad remains an important part of U.S. history. The Golden Spike is still remembered today as a sign of what the country can achieve.

Interesting Fact: The real Golden Spike was made of solid gold and is now kept in a museum at Stanford University.

Where was the Golden Spike ceremony?

Promontory Summit, UtahSacramento, CaliforniaOmaha, NebraskaSan Francisco, California

What year was the railroad completed?

1869177618621849

Which two companies built the railroad?

Union Pacific and Central PacificSanta Fe and AmtrakUnion Pacific and Santa FeCentral Pacific and BNSF

Why was the Golden Spike important?

It symbolized national unityIt was the first spike everIt was made of silverIt was the largest spike

What was a main obstacle for workers?

Mountains and desertsCrowded citiesLack of waterNo tools

How did the railroad change America?