History of the National Road...?

Question

Hey, I'm really confused about a big history project because I've been reading different stuff about the National Road all over the place.

Somewhere it says Senator Henry Clay was the 'driving' force behind the project... and somewhere a whole story about Albert Gallatin is quoted. Who was the main contributor?

Also, I would really appreciate if someone could explain to me who the interested/affected 'groups' were. I realize that the Ohians played an important part in this. Was there anyone else involved?

And lastly, I need to list the short and long-term advantages AND disadvantages of the National Road. I know the project was abandoned after the beginning of Railroads, and that it was the first federally funded project, but I am unable to find anything else in the long-term effects especially.

P.S., please don't just provide a mere link with all sorts of information about Route 40. I've already been through a lot of that.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Gallatin was definitely the driving force. It was his idea and he championed the idea. He also made money off selling some of the land used.
It was the first interstate public works project. Senator Clay was known as the "Great Compromiser" and was needed to get federal approval and funding.
Like land grant colleges the Federal Government donated land and the States were responsible for implementation and maintenance.
It was the first major macadam road, a really big deal in those times. Charles McAdam designed a surface that was far superior to the corduroy (wooden) and dirt roads.
Advantages:
It greatly improved mail delivery.
Hundreds of inns were built along it. It became a magnet for travelers.
It was of high enough quality that stage lines set up shop.
Disadvantages:
It was a toll road.
It attracted criminals and other "low lifes".
It got often clogged with herds being driven to market.