What decision by Congress in 1956 directly led to the rapid growth of Atlanta?
A. building the interstate highway system
B. building international airports
C. connecting existing railroad lines
D. eliminating restrictions on building codes
A. Building the interstate highway system directly led to the rapid growth of Atlanta.
To determine which decision by Congress in 1956 directly led to the rapid growth of Atlanta, we can analyze each option.
A. Building the interstate highway system: The construction of the interstate highway system, authorized by the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, did contribute to the growth of cities across the United States. However, it is important to understand the specific impact on Atlanta.
The interstate highway system did play a role in Atlanta's growth by improving connectivity and facilitating economic development. Highways such as Interstate 75 and Interstate 85 passing through Atlanta created greater accessibility, making it easier for people and goods to travel to and from the city. This improved transportation infrastructure attracted businesses, residents, and tourists, which contributed to the city's growth. Therefore, building the interstate highway system could be a potential factor.
B. Building international airports: While having international airports can also contribute to a city's growth, the question specifically asks about a decision made by Congress in 1956. It is unlikely that the construction of international airports directly led to the rapid growth of Atlanta in that year.
C. Connecting existing railroad lines: Connecting existing railroad lines is an important aspect of transportation infrastructure, but it is less likely to have directly led to the rapid growth of Atlanta in 1956. This option seems less probable compared to other choices.
D. Eliminating restrictions on building codes: While building codes can impact city development, the elimination of restrictions on building codes alone is less likely to have directly caused rapid growth in Atlanta in 1956.
Based on the analysis, it is more plausible that option A, building the interstate highway system, directly led to the rapid growth of Atlanta in 1956. The improved accessibility and connectivity provided by the interstate highways facilitated economic development and attracted people and businesses to the city.