Also see here for more clarification: http://www.straightdope.com/columns/read/2538/was-standard-railroad-gauge-48-determined-by-roman-chariot-ruts http://www.s

Also see here for more clarification: http://www.straightdope.com/columns/read/2538/was-standard-railroad-gauge-48-determined-by-roman-chariot-ruts http://www.straightdope.com/columns/read/2538/was-standard-r... This is an old and a goodie, but it's not entirely accurate.