Who primarily influenced the delay of statehood in North Dakota?

The delay of statehood in North Dakota was primarily influenced by railroad interests. In the late 19th century, railroads were crucial to the economic development of the region. Their construction and expansion shaped settlement patterns and economic growth, leading to a significant population increase. However, railroad companies were concerned that statehood might lead to tighter regulations, increased taxes, and competition with state-run enterprises. Thus, they lobbied for a delay in North Dakota's path to statehood to secure their interests.

Additionally, the desire of railroads to control transportation and development in the territories meant that they played a significant role in the political dynamics of the time, impacting when and how the territory would seek admission to the Union. They favored a more gradual approach to statehood, which ultimately contributed to the prolonged status of North Dakota as a territory rather than an immediate state.

Other factors, such as local leaders, the federal government, and Native tribes, certainly influenced the situation, but the powerful lobbying by the railroads bore the greatest impact on delaying statehood for North Dakota.