In Cotton, Cattle, and Railroads (1870-1900), students in grades 6-8 will explore a period of tremendous economic growth in Texas, driven by the rapid expansion of railroads, agriculture, and livestock industries. This book examines how these industries transformed Texas into a central agricultural and livestock production hub in the late 19th century.

After the Civil War, Texas experienced a boom in railroad construction, with thousands of miles of new track laid across the state. These railroads revolutionized transportation, allowing farmers and ranchers to move their products to markets faster and more efficiently. Lumber from East Texas, cattle from West Texas, and crops from farms across the state were now easily transported, contributing to the rapid growth of Texas cities and commerce.

By the turn of the century, Texas had emerged as a leading producer of cattle and cotton. Ranchers in West Texas profited from vast herds of cattle, while cotton farming became the cornerstone of the state’s agricultural economy. The railroads played a critical role in connecting rural areas to larger markets, helping to solidify Texas’s place as an economic powerhouse.

Aligned with US History curriculum standards for grades 6-8, this book provides students with an engaging overview of the era’s significant developments, highlighting how advancements in transportation and industry transformed Texas. Through detailed narratives, maps, and illustrations, students will gain a deeper understanding of how cotton, cattle, and railroads shaped the state’s history and economy during this period of rapid growth.