'USG Legislative Requirements in U.S. and Georgia History and Constitution Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Mastering Your Exam!'

By the mid-1850s, Georgia's rail system had indeed become the most expansive in the Deep South, which significantly contributed to the state's economic and logistical development. This expansion was part of a broader trend in the United States during the 19th century, where railroads played a crucial role in promoting commerce and facilitating the movement of goods and people.

Georgia's railroads facilitated transportation across vast distances, connecting urban centers, ports, and rural areas, thus enhancing trade and commerce within and beyond the state. The extensive rail network allowed for more efficient transportation of agricultural products, especially cotton, which was a critical commodity in the South’s economy at the time. This development had a profound impact on the state's growth and economic infrastructure.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the significant changes in Georgia's rail system during that period. The focus on freight transport is a part of rail operations but does not capture the overall significance compared to the expansive nature of the system itself. Furthermore, the railroads were primarily managed by private companies rather than the federal government, and there was no significant shift towards maritime transportation that would indicate a decline in rail infrastructure. Thus, the answer reflects a crucial aspect of Georgia’s transportation evolution during this significant era