Which event was stimulated by the need for a Western railroad following Confederation?

Settlement in the Western territories was significantly stimulated by the need for a Western railroad following Confederation. The completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 19th century played a crucial role in facilitating the movement of people and goods across vast distances.

The railway made it easier for settlers to travel to the Western territories, thus encouraging agriculture and development in these areas. It provided the necessary infrastructure to support and sustain a growing population, promoting economic growth and the establishment of communities.

While other choices also relate to the broader context of Confederation and its aftermath, the direct connection between the railroad and the settlement in the West is particularly strong. The railway was essential in ensuring that not only were goods transported efficiently, but also that a significant influx of settlers could access lands that were previously difficult to reach, allowing for widespread settlement and the eventual development of these territories into integral parts of Canada.