Which industries benefited from government subsidies in the last half of the 19th century?

In the last half of the 19th century, the railroad industry significantly benefited from government subsidies, including land grants and loans, which facilitated rapid expansion and infrastructure development. The agricultural sector also received support through various policies, including the Homestead Act, which encouraged settlement and farming in the West. Additionally, the steel industry gained from government contracts and investments, particularly during the industrialization period. These subsidies played a crucial role in shaping the economic landscape of the United States during this era.