The Evolution of America's First Highways: From the National Road to the Interstate System

America's journey to modern highway infrastructure began with the construction of the National Road in the early 19th century. This article explores the origins, significance, and impact of the first highways built in America, from the National Road and the Santa Fe Trail to the Interstate System, providing a comprehensive timeline and insight into the evolution of American roads.

The National Road: Pioneering Federal Infrastructure

The first highway in America that stands out is the National Road, officially known as the Cumberland Road. Construction began in 1811 in Cumberland, Maryland, and was completed in sections reaching as far as Vandalia, Illinois, by the mid-1830s.

Significantly, the National Road was the first major improved highway to be developed entirely by the federal government. Its construction facilitated westward expansion and commerce, serving as a catalyst for the growth of the United States. The road played a crucial role in connecting the East Coast with the frontier, fostering the development of new towns and settlements as it was pushed further west.

Post-World War I and the Early Interstate System

After World War I, America's roads improved from narrow dirt paths to more substantial roadways. However, before the construction of a modern interstate system, the U.S. Army undertook a significant project that laid the groundwork for future highway systems.

In 1919, the U.S. Army dispatched a convoy across the entire continent, documented by an officer named Dwight D. Eisenhower. This experience highlighted the significant lack of well-maintained roads and passable bridges that impeded military and civilian travel. Following his promotion to President, Eisenhower became a strong advocate for the construction of a national interstate highway system.

The Interstate System, initiated during the Cold War era, aimed to provide a network that would not only enhance transportation but also serve as a strategic advantage in the event of a nuclear war. The highways were designed to have one mile every five miles without strict on/off-ramp access, ensuring that large military aircraft could land and be supplied with necessary resources. Additionally, it was illegal to back up on controlled access highways, and vehicles left unattended for two hours would be towed to keep the roads clear.

Other Early American Highways

There were several other early American highways that played significant roles in the development of the nation. Among them are the Buffalo Trace and the Santa Fe Trail.

The Buffalo Trace was a vital route for the transport of goods and wildlife, particularly bison, before the arrival of European settlers. It served as an essential buffer zone and trade route during the colonial period.

The Santa Fe Trail was a crucial pathway for traders and settlers to travel between Missouri and Santa Fe in New Mexico. Established in the early 19th century, the trail was instrumental in expanding the American settlements westward and forming trade relations with the southwest.

Additionally, the National Road remains a significant landmark in American history, recognized for its development and impact on the nation's westward expansion.

American Libertarian Arguments on the National Road's Constitutionality

American libertarians have presented thoughtful and well-reasoned arguments against the constitutionality of the National Road. They contend that the federal government's involvement in the construction of the road involved spending beyond its constitutional powers, as articulated in the Tenth Amendment.

The Tenth Amendment to the United States Constitution reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. Libertarians argue that the federal government's role in constructing the National Road was an exercise of power not explicitly granted to it by the Constitution, leading to potential overreach and centralization of power.

Conclusion

From the early National Road to the transformative Interstate System, the evolution of America's highway infrastructure has been a cornerstone in shaping the nation's development. Each road and highway system played a crucial role in the growth, commerce, and strategic defense of the United States. Whether through federal government intervention as seen in the National Road, military initiatives leading to the Interstate System, or privately developed routes like the Buffalo Trace and Santa Fe Trail, these early highways remain integral to understanding the history and development of the American road system.