Looks at the railroad's impact on American society in the nineteenth century, from its ability to move goods and people great distances to its role in making the United States a world power.

The railroads win out -- A passionate affair -- The railroads take hold -- The battle lines -- Harnessing the elephant -- Railroads to everywhere -- Getting better all the time -- The end of the affair -- All kinds of train -- The roots of decline -- A narrow escape -- Renaissance without passengers.