I commented, on a general forum thread, the other day about how NY played an important part in our nation’s history. I was chided by the cRuzer’s .... they asked what I was smoking.
The entire country changed, New York City in particular when the Erie Canal was completed in 1825. Shipping costs fell by 80 to 90% and the port of New York City grew by leaps and bounds. All because of a big 8 foot ditch that connected the Great Lakes region with the eastern seaboard.