What role did the US government play in the expansion of railroads during the late 1800s?

The government gave the railroads massive concessions. In many areas, they gave the companies land grants of one-half of all land within 10 miles of new tracks. They gave the railroads business with mail and freight. They gave the railroads rights to do business in select areas. In addition, towns often gave the railroads free land for stations and switchyards.