In 1869, the first transcontinental railroad in the United States was completed, connecting the eastern and western parts of the country. This monumental achievement allowed for faster transportation of goods and people, significantly impacting the economy and settlement patterns. The final spike, known as the Golden Spike, was driven at Promontory Summit in Utah on May 10, 1869. Additionally, 1869 marked the founding of the Suez Canal, which opened a new maritime route between Europe and Asia. This canal greatly reduced travel time for ships, enhancing global trade and commerce. Its completion was a significant engineering feat of the time.