Leo E. Oliva, Speaker
Historian with a research focus on 19th-century Kansas.
Railroaded: The Industry That Shaped Kansas
Presentation by: Leo E. Oliva
In the 19th century, the influence of the railroad industry was vast. Some claim that Kansas was created specifically to accommodate westward expansion of railroads. Railroads brought immigrant settlers, created jobs, and fed beef markets in the East. They enabled regular mail service and the adoption of standard time. Most Kansas towns were founded because of the railroad, and few survived without it. This progress came at a cost to the Plains Indians who were forcibly displaced by this westward expansion. This presentation examines the complicated legacy of railroads.
Contact Leo directly about speaking at your event:
785/425-7312
oliva@ruraltel.net