The significance of the Raton Pass lies in its connection to which railroad?

The Raton Pass is significant primarily due to its connection with the Southern Pacific Railroad. This mountain pass in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains provided a crucial route for the railroad as it traversed the challenging terrain between New Mexico and Colorado. The Southern Pacific, seeking to expand its network and facilitate transport between the Southwest and the rest of the country, utilized Raton Pass to improve access for trade and travel.

The Southern Pacific's establishment of a line through Raton Pass enabled it to tap into the resources and markets of the region effectively, which was particularly important in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when railroads were paramount to economic development. This connection also contributed to the growth of towns and settlements along the railroad, fostering economic opportunities within New Mexico.

While the other railroad options mentioned played important roles in the history of rail transport, their connections do not specifically include the Raton Pass as a pivotal route. Hence, the significance of the Raton Pass aligns closely with the Southern Pacific Railroad's expansion and infrastructure efforts during that era.