The Iron Horse: How Railroads Changed America

This substantial volume provides an evenhanded history of the growth and impact of the railroads in 19th-century America. Wormser ( Pinkerton ) begins with the first primitive engines, describes the struggle to construct transcontinental lines and concludes with the issuing of safety regulations at the end of the century. Balancing the emphasis on ``progress'' is a revealing and dramatic presentation of the railroad industry's seamy underside. Oppressive treatment of workers led to such confrontations as the Pullman strike of 1894; exploitive and monopolistic practices sparked farmers' revolts; and the development of the railroads decimated Native American cultures. Well-chosen black-and-white illustrations suggest the spirit of adventure, while a glossary (``gandy dancer'' means track laborer) adds color. Ages 10-up. (Nov.)