Why did miners in the West create groups of vigilantes?

Question

(1 point
Responses

to clear forests and prepare for mining
to clear forests and prepare for mining

to take control of claims from businesses
to take control of claims from businesses

to enforce laws and punish criminals
to enforce laws and punish criminals

to replace independent contractors

Answer 1

Miners in the West created groups of vigilantes primarily to enforce laws and punish criminals. Due to the lack of established law enforcement in mining towns, miners formed these groups to maintain order and address crime effectively.