It wasn't just the canal, although that was a vital link in the chain. There were tons of roads and railroads built pre-Civil War that resulted in tying the regions together for their mutual interests.
Best book I've read for giving me an understanding of how economic interests played a role in ALL of the country's history was Westward Expansion by Ray Allen Billington.
” Best book I’ve read for giving me an understanding of how economic interests played a role in ALL of the country’s history was Westward Expansion by Ray Allen Billington. “
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Thanks! Am looking for an historically helpful book to read.,
I suggest “The Business of May Next” by Miller to anyone seeking similar.