The Chicago and North Western Railway (CNW) was a major American railroad that operated primarily in the Midwest. Founded in 1859, it connected cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Omaha, facilitating the movement of goods and passengers across the region. The railway played a significant role in the economic development of the areas it served. In 1995, the CNW merged with the Union Pacific Railroad, marking the end of its independent operations. The railway's legacy continues to influence freight transportation in the United States, as its routes and infrastructure are now part of the larger Union Pacific network.