What sparked the rapid growth of chicago from a small settlement in 1830 to america's fourth largest city by 1860? the erie canal connected directly to chicago?

Railroads--Chicago became the connecting point to the east, west, and south due to its location on Lake Michigan and connections to the Mississippi. 

The city is the central hub for rail lines running through the country. The meat from the southern ranches came into Chicago, was processed there and then sent out. Farm crops from the Midwest were also brought through Chicago and sent through the country. Sears Roebuck was started in Chicago as well created a Midwestern hub for trade and commerce. 

Ithink it iscommunism?

1. the spread of reform movements aimed at perfecting american society