Ep 3. Changing the Game
- TV-PG
- October 30, 2012
- 43 min
-
8.3 (137)
In The Men Who Built America season 1 episode 3, entitled "Changing the Game," the focus is on the fierce battle for control of the railroad industry in America during the late 1800s. The episode follows three central figures and their respective companies: Cornelius Vanderbilt's New York Central Railroad, Jay Gould's Union Pacific, and Tom Scott's Pennsylvania Railroad.
The episode opens with Vanderbilt, the powerful magnate known as the "Commodore," vying for control of the Erie Railroad. With Vanderbilt's sights set on acquiring the company, Gould makes a bold move to outsmart him. Gould secretly buys up shares in the Erie Railroad, driving up the price and causing Vanderbilt to spend a fortune in a futile attempt to gain control.
Meanwhile, Scott is also busy working to expand his own railroad company. He sees the benefits of a direct route to Chicago and sets his sights on building a bridge over the Mississippi River. However, his plan is met with resistance from the mayor of St. Louis and his political allies, who are determined to stop him. Scott eventually resorts to bribery and corruption to push his agenda forward, leading to a scandal that threatens to derail his plans.
As the three men battle it out for control of the railroad industry, the episode also explores the impact of their actions on the country as a whole. The construction of new railroad lines helps to connect cities and towns across America, making trade and industry more efficient. However, the fight for control of these valuable resources also leads to cutthroat competition and corruption, causing harm to individuals and communities along the way.
Ultimately, "Changing the Game" is a gripping look at a pivotal moment in American history, as powerful men scramble for control of a key industry that would shape the country's future. With incredible archival footage and insightful expert commentary, this episode of The Men Who Built America offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of some of the most influential figures of the late 19th century.
