which part did railroads play in western settlement in the late 1800s? responses railroads played little part in western settlement, but they did deliver goods to those who went. railroads played little part in western settlement, but they did deliver goods to those who went. railroads transported most of the settlers to the west quickly and efficiently. railroads transported most of the settlers to the west quickly and efficiently. railroads reduced the competition for land while opening new territory. railroads reduced the competition for land while opening new territory. railroads provided jobs, brought in immigrant settlers, and connected markets