In the moment, he acted without thoroughly contemplating his actions, although feeling guilt wash over him after he had done it. Even when others tried to comfort him, he refused to justify taking a life. Later in life, the guilt still wallows inside him.

The transcontinental railroad provided a means of fast transportation. it cut a 6 month trip into 6 days, created jobs for many people and encouraged immigration. the homestead act played a huge role in western expansion; it allowed settlers to begin a fresh start, and gave them land in exchange for their residence for up to five years and a small fee.