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

Question

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 wages.

Answer 1

The MOST important reason that Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Birmingham, Alabama, developed steel industries is:

C. Both cities had abundant supplies of coal nearby.

Access to coal was crucial for powering the furnaces and processes involved in steel production, making it a key factor in the growth of the steel industry in these locations.