What was the name for nations that bordered the Soviet Union and were heavily influenced by its communist policies?

ANSWER : Eastern Bloc. Since 1924, the Soviet Union placed a high priority on its own security and internal development. After the war, Stalin sought to secure the Soviet Union's western border by installing communist-dominated regimes under Soviet influence in bordering countries, called the Eastern Bloc.

The transcontinental railroad provided a means of fast transportation. it cut a 6 month trip into 6 days, created jobs for many people and encouraged immigration. the homestead act played a huge role in western expansion; it allowed settlers to begin a fresh start, and gave them land in exchange for their residence for up to five years and a small fee.