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<p>I think the origin of the standard track gauge of 4´8 1/2" being the space between the wheels of Roman war chariots is a popular legend, but nothing more. It´s about the size you need to be able to put a carthorse comfortably in between shafts. English mines used a gauge of 4´8" for ages before the invention of the steam engine, just for that reason. Stephenson added that 1/2" to reduce wear and tear in curves.</p> <p>As the first railroad equipment was imported from Great Britain, most pioneer countries "inherited" this gauge.</p>
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