What problem did C F Dowd set out to solve?

C.F. Dowd set out to solve the problem of time coordination across the United States, which was hampered by the lack of standardized time zones. Before Dowd's proposal, each locality set its own time based on solar noon, leading to confusion in scheduling, particularly for the growing railroad industry. In 1869, he proposed a system of four time zones to streamline travel and communication, ultimately facilitating a more organized approach to timekeeping nationwide. This system laid the groundwork for the standard time zones we use today.