The effect of the Canal was both immediate and dramatic, and settlers poured west. The explosion of trade prophesied by Governor Clinton began, spurred by freight rates from Buffalo to New York of $10 per ton by Canal, compared with $100 per ton by road. In 1829, there were 3,640 bushels of wheat transported down the Canal from Buffalo. By 1837 this figure had increased to 500,000 bushels; four years later it reached one million. In nine years, Canal tolls more than recouped the entire cost of construction.
Within 15 years of the Canal's opening, New York was the busiest port in America, moving tonnages greater than Boston, Baltimore and New Orleans combined.
—New York Canals
Question
Use the passage to answer the question.
How did the economic success of the Erie Canal impact westward expansion?
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Responses
There was an increased demand for laborers to help build similar canals to the West.
There was an increased demand for laborers to help build similar canals to the West.
There was less competition in the West because it was sparsely populated compared to the East.
There was less competition in the West because it was sparsely populated compared to the East.
The canal system eliminated many of the jobs in the East, forcing people to the West.
The canal system eliminated many of the jobs in the East, forcing people to the West.
There were more economic opportunities in the West due to the success of the canal system.
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The correct response is:
There were more economic opportunities in the West due to the success of the canal system.
This option aligns with the passage, which discusses how the Erie Canal spurred westward movement by providing access to rich land and resources, facilitating trade, and ultimately making New York a major commercial center. The economic success of the canal opened up opportunities for settlers and trade in the West.
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