The major economic impact of the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 in the U.S. was widespread disruption to the nation's transportation network, highlighting the growing tensions between labor and capital during the industrial revolution. The strike began in response to wage cuts by railroad companies, triggering protests that spread across multiple states and led to violent confrontations. Rail traffic was severely affected, causing significant losses for businesses and transportation services. The strike underscored the need for labor reforms and influenced public perception of workers' rights, ultimately contributing to the rise of organized labor movements and changes in labor laws in subsequent decades.