"The Erie Canal could be called America’s first great communications network.The Erie Canal carried more westbound immigrants than any other means, and these newcomers infused the nation with different languages, customs, practices, and religions" (Williams, 2009).
The Erie Canal was not only a channel for transportation and commerce, but social transformation as well. Innovation and ideas could reach more people more quickly, thereby spreading social reform.
The barges became vehicles for movements such as the abolition of slavery, women’s rights, and religious revolutions. The Erie Canal was the instrument of change. Across the waterways moved the quest for freedom of man, woman, and worship ("Erie canal national," 2008).
The barges became vehicles for movements such as the abolition of slavery, women’s rights, and religious revolutions. The Erie Canal was the instrument of change. Across the waterways moved the quest for freedom of man, woman, and worship ("Erie canal national," 2008).
