The discovery of gold in California in 1849 brought to the west coast a great rush of people who wanted to get to the gold field as soon as possible. They streamed west in covered wagons, on horseback, and by ship.
It was soon evident that an easier and faster way to travel should be found. Railroads ran only as far west as Chicago. When some talked of a railroad across the country they were called dreamers. Such a thing could not be done ! The hot desert, wild animals, and high mountains would be too much to overcome.
These fears did not stop the eager planners. In 1862 Congress passed the pacific Railroad Bill. The way was now clear to go to work.