The West: Mining and Ranching

What were the primary industries that people pursued fortunes in during the American West booms?

• Mining and cattle

• Farming and textiles

• Railroads and shipping

• Banking and real estate

How did mining lead to new settlements in the West?

• By providing employment opportunities

• By decreasing land prices

• By improving transportation

• By creating educational institutions

Why did mining become big business?

• Due to the high demand for precious metals

• Because of agricultural needs

• Due to the decrease in mining technology costs

• Because of governmental policies

How and why did the cattle boom come to an end?

• Due to overgrazing

• Because of a shift to agriculture

• Due to natural disasters

• Because of market saturation

What year did the California Gold Rush begin, leading to significant migration to the West?

• 1845

• 1849

• 1852

• 1860

Which mining discovery in Nevada produced $500 million in silver over 20 years?

• Klondike Lode

• Sierra Silver Mine

• Comstock Lode

• Nevada Silver Rush

When was gold discovered on the Canadian/Alaskan border, sparking the Klondike Gold Rush?

• June 1896

• July 1897

• August 1898

• May 1895

Approximately how many people rushed to get the gold during the Klondike Gold Rush?

• 50,000

• 75,000

• 100,000

• 125,000

What was a major challenge faced by those who participated in the Klondike Gold Rush?

• Easy transportation

• Difficult terrain

• Abundant supplies

• Friendly competition

What was the outcome for most participants in the Klondike Gold Rush?

• Most found wealth

• Most established mines

• Most failed

• Most returned home safely