In the 1820s–1830s, the United States began transporting more goods on river steamboats. Canals were also built to connect water routes throughout the country. Why did the infrastructure of the early United States develop mainly through water transportation?
A.
It was cheaper to build ships and canals than roads and wagons.
B.
Water routes covered less geographic distance than land routes did.
C.
It was easier and faster to carry goods over water than over land.
D.
Water routes were less dangerous to travel through than land routes.