Which of the following was a significant cause of the economic trend from 1843 to 1854 shown in the graph?

• A. The widespread adoption of restrictive trade policies
• B. A major global recession that reduced demand for goods
• C. A significant decrease in agricultural productivity due to drought
• D. The expansion of the railroad network, which facilitated trade and market growth

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the economic trend shown in the graph from 1843 to 1854, such as growth in trade, production, or market expansion.
2. Consider the impact of different factors on the economy during this period, focusing on how each could influence trade and market activity.
3. Analyze how the expansion of the railroad network would affect economic variables: it reduces transportation costs, connects markets, and facilitates the movement of goods and resources.
4. Compare this effect with other options like restrictive trade policies, global recession, or agricultural productivity changes, and evaluate which aligns best with the observed trend.
5. Conclude that the expansion of the railroad network is the significant cause because it directly promotes trade and market growth, explaining the positive economic trend in the graph.