Question

How did the role of technology play in the construction of the Erie Canal and Empire building?

Answer 1

There was very little in the way of 'technology' as we know it used in the building of canals in the nineteenth century. Animals were used to pull carts hauling away the soil as the digging of the waterway went ahead while large groups of labourers dug out the soil with basic tools such as spades and pick axes. There may have been some animal driven machinery to plough up the soil but it would still need to have manpower to move it from the bottom of the canal to a cart to be carried off.
There would be some scaffolding and concrete forms in place to form the retaining walls and to hold back the soil from collapsing in on the canal as it was being dug.

Among the most technologically apt group of those involved in construction process would be the civil engineers.
I hope this helps...sorry its so long

Answer 2

Long is good. Thanks! :)