“The positive effects of railroad construction outweighed the negative effects.” With reference to two countries of the Americas, to what extent do you agree with this statement?

Candidates will consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that the positive effects of railroad construction outweighed the negative effects in any two countries of the Americas. While positions may vary, the focus should be on assessing and supporting the extent to which the suggested position is valid. Positive effects may be supported by discussion of increased trade, market access and employment, migration leading to economic opportunity, enhanced development of a unified national culture, modernization of industry, development of infrastructure, access to and development of natural resources and capacity to export surplus production. Harmful effects that may be addressed include overreliance on foreign capital (primarily in Latin America), intrusion into and destruction of indigenous peoples’ lands and cultures, destructive ecological consequences, exploitation of immigrant labour, and increased opportunities for corrupt business dealings and bribery of politicians.