Which of the following was an effect of the discovery of gold and silver on western devolpment?
It causes a sharp decrease in the population of eastern cities
There was no longer a need for the railroad
*The value of gold and silver decreased
It contributed to the opening of the western frontier
I disagree.
Check your text.
The effect of the discovery of gold and silver on western development was that it contributed to the opening of the western frontier.
The correct answer is: It contributed to the opening of the western frontier.
To arrive at this answer, let's analyze each option:
1. It causes a sharp decrease in the population of eastern cities: This statement is not true. The discovery of gold and silver in the West actually caused a population boom in western cities as people flocked there in search of wealth.
2. There was no longer a need for the railroad: This statement is also false. The discovery of gold and silver did not eliminate the need for railroads. In fact, railroads played a crucial role in transporting people, supplies, and equipment to the western states during the period of the gold rush.
3. The value of gold and silver decreased: This statement is partly true. The discovery of gold and silver in large quantities led to an increase in the supply of these precious metals, which in turn caused some decrease in their value. However, it is important to note that the overall impact of this on western development was positive, as it spurred economic growth and attracted more settlers to the region.
4. It contributed to the opening of the western frontier: This statement is the correct answer. The discovery of substantial amounts of gold and silver in the western states (such as California during the Gold Rush of 1849) attracted a significant number of people to the region. This, in turn, led to the opening of the western frontier, the development of new towns and cities, the expansion of infrastructure like roads and railroads, and the establishment of mining settlements. The discovery of gold and silver was one of the key driving forces behind the rapid growth and development of the American West in the mid-19th century.
In summary, the correct answer is that the discovery of gold and silver contributed to the opening of the western frontier.