- The North wanted a railroad to connect the East Coast to the West Coast, in order to facilitate trade and commerce. The South, on the other hand, was opposed to the construction of a transcontinental railroad, fearing that it would lead to increased economic and political power for the North.
- The South was also concerned that a transcontinental railroad would make it easier for the federal government to enforce laws against slavery, and would also make it easier for settlers to move into the West and compete with Southern planters for land and resources.
- Additionally, the South was concerned that a transcontinental railroad would divert trade away from Southern ports and cities, such as New Orleans, and instead direct it to Northern ports and cities, such as New York and Boston.