President Wilson takes over nation’s railroads 100 years ago #OnThisDay #OTD (Dec 26 1917)

(Wednesday, December 26, 1917; during World War I) — In what was possibly the largest American experiment with nationalization, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation today authorizing the government to take over operation of the nation’s railroads.

The Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) had recommended federal control of the railroad industry to ensure efficient transport of troops and materials for the war effort.