The Santa Fe Railway was a major American railroad that operated from the late 19th century until the late 20th century. Founded in 1859, it played a crucial role in connecting the southwestern United States with the Midwest and the Pacific Coast. The railway was known for its extensive network, which facilitated the transport of goods and passengers across vast distances. In 1996, the Santa Fe Railway merged with the Burlington Northern Railroad to form the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNSF), one of the largest freight railroad networks in North America. The legacy of the Santa Fe Railway continues to influence rail transport and commerce in the region today.