Why did miners in the West

Question

create groups of vigilantes?
to clear forests and
prepare for mining
to take control of claims
from businesses
to enforce laws and
punish criminals
to replace independent
contractors

Answer 1

Miners in the West created groups of vigilantes to enforce laws and punish criminals. In the absence of established law enforcement in newly settled areas, these vigilante groups took it upon themselves to maintain order, protect their interests, and address issues such as theft, disputes over claims, and other criminal activities. This often resulted in extrajudicial measures, including lynching, but it was seen as a way to restore some semblance of order in lawless mining towns.