What was an important consequence of the introduction of time zones in America?

The introduction of time zones in America had a significant impact on transportation, particularly on rail travel. Before time zones were established, local communities operated on their own clocks, leading to confusion and inconsistencies in scheduling. This caused difficulties in coordinating train departures and arrivals, which were crucial for a growing nation that relied on railroads for commerce and communication.

With the establishment of standardized time zones in 1883, it became much easier to plan and synchronize train schedules. Railroads could effectively communicate times with customers, reduce accidents caused by timing discrepancies, and improve overall efficiency in travel. This transformation was vital for promoting interconnectivity across vast distances and supporting the economic expansion of the United States during that period.