Question

Multiple Choice Question
During the 1800s, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Birmingham, Alabama, became important steel-producing cities. What was the most important reason these cities developed steel industries?

A.
People in those states needed more steel than people in other states.

B.
The governments of those cities were unconcerned about air pollution.

C.
Both cities had abundant supplies of coal nearby.

D.
Workers in those cities were willing to work for lower wag

Answer 1

The most important reason that Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Birmingham, Alabama, developed steel industries during the 1800s is:

**C. Both cities had abundant supplies of coal nearby.**

Coal was vital for steel production, particularly in the process of smelting iron ore. The proximity of coal supplies helped these cities establish strong steel industries.