All of the responses provided highlight certain negative impacts of gold and silver mining in the West. However, the most significant and broadly recognized negative impact would likely be "Ghost towns were left behind after the mines stopped producing." This reflects not only the economic downturn and abandonment that followed the boom periods but also the social, environmental, and psychological consequences of mining operations. Ghost towns symbolize the fleeting nature of wealth and opportunity in the mining boom, as communities often collapsed when resources were depleted.
Question
What negative impact did gold and silver mining have in the West?
(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.
Mass migration from the East Coast led to social tension among merchants.
1 answer