In spanish latin america, people who were of mixed european and indian ancestry were called

People of mixed ancestry were called "Mestizos" - which literately means "mixed".

They were above the indigenous population (the Indios) in the hierarchy, but below the Spaniards who came from Spain (Peninsulares). Between them and the Peninsulares there was one more group: the Criollos (children of Peninsulares)

The transcontinental railroad provided a means of fast transportation. it cut a 6 month trip into 6 days, created jobs for many people and encouraged immigration. the homestead act played a huge role in western expansion; it allowed settlers to begin a fresh start, and gave them land in exchange for their residence for up to five years and a small fee.