Why were waterways such as rivers and canals important to the nation in the early 19th Century? Select one: a. They provided the first hydroelectric dams and thus powered our first cities. b. They were most easily defended as our naval ships could be moored at their entrances to protect against invasion. c. They provided water so that herdsmen could keep large herds of cattle in areas, which might not otherwise support this industry. d. They were the easiest means of transportation, used by farmers, herders and others to get their products to market.