Working on the railroads is one of those professions in the US traditionally done by slaves or near-slaves. Just like agricultural work, food service, cleaning, and household help.
I don't know, I've worked countless 60-70 hour weeks at a restaurant... some days both opening and closing the place... and food service just doesn't seem comparable.
Perhaps fishing or working on a boat is similar, but many of those jobs allow for weeks or even months off at a time.
Perhaps fishing or working on a boat is similar, but many of those jobs allow for weeks or even months off at a time.