1871: Railway

In 1871, under the rule of dictator Colonel Tomás Guardia, construction on the Atlantic Railroad started. He borrowed money from England to construct the railroad and that debt still plagues Costa Rica. One of the main arguments against the construction of the railroad was that he used private contractors rather than the state to build it. He declared that private contractors were more efficient and trustworthy. Guardia enlisted John Meiggs, a U.S. engineer who had experience building railroads in the Andes, to head up this project. In 1876 Meigg's nephew, Minor Keith, took control and finished the railroad.

Construction of the railroad was very difficult and nearly 5,000 people died during the process. Malaria, yellow fever, dysentery, and a lack of fresh food all plagued the workers. Keith recruited Chinese and Italians and used thousands of West Indians to finish the job.

The railroad's main purpose was in transport coffee to the Caribbean coast so it could then be sent to Europe. Using the railroad cut 3 months off of travel time and was a much cheaper option. It also led to the growth of banana exports.

The railroad was such an accomplishment in terms of transporting coffee and that led to an immense increase in export revenue. The railroad was and still is a symbol of national progress.