Radical Republicans led by Charles Drake dominate Missouri government after the war. They push through reforms that help freedmen and punish ex-Confederates.
Enforcement proves difficult.
Rail passenger service begins between Kansas City and St. Louis. The Eads Bridge, though, will not open until 1874. A livestock slaughterhouse opens on the Kansas Pacific Railroad. Democrats launch The Kansas City Daily Times newspaper. The Bridge, complete and having been tested, is officially opened in front of 10,000 people and national journalists.