Before the railways, Canada was a vast, rugged country with a small, widely spread population. As train tracks were laid from the Atlantic to the Pacific, towns sprang up along the way. Train stations became centres of life and communication. Jobs were created, businesses sprang up, and for the first time, Canadians felt united. By 1867 the Dominion of Canada would form, due in no small part to the railways.
Also available in French - please enquire if you are interested.