What negative impact did gold and silver mining have in the West?

Question

(1 point)
Responses

Tent cities near the mines fostered criminals as long-term residents.
Tent cities near the mines fostered criminals as long-term residents.

Ghost towns were left behind after the mines stopped producing.
Ghost towns were left behind after the mines stopped producing.

Mining camps were sources of many contagious diseases.
Mining camps were sources of many contagious diseases.

Mass migration from the East Coast led to social tension among merchants.

Answer 1

All of the responses highlight negative impacts of gold and silver mining in the West, but the most comprehensive answer would be:

Mining camps were sources of many contagious diseases.

This response addresses a significant health concern that arose due to the rapid influx of people into mining areas, resulting in overcrowded conditions that facilitated the spread of diseases. While other options also describe negative consequences, the mention of diseases emphasizes a public health impact that affected many individuals during the mining boom.