Boomtowns
What type of store would you most likely find in a mining boomtown?
Liquor Store, Dentist, Hardware Store, Jewelry Store, Bank
True or False: There were more women than men in the western boomtowns.
False
What precious metal was primarily sought after during the Gold Rush?
Gold
Why was it necessary to establish standard time for railroads?
To avoid confusion and accidents.
What major railroad connected the East and West coasts of the United States?
The Transcontinental Railroad.
Name one type of business that miners might need but is not shown in the slideshow.
Clothing Store, Weapon Store, Bakery
What happens to a town when it becomes a ghost town?
It is often abandoned due to depleted resources.
Name one other precious metal discovered during the mining boom.
Silver
What problem did railroads face without standard time?
Confusion with time zones.
Why were railroads significant during the mining boom?
They facilitated the transportation of goods and people.
Why did Levi Strauss's business thrive during the mining boom?
Miners needed durable pants, and he provided them.
Name one factor that contributes to a town becoming a ghost town.
Economic decline, depletion of resources, or natural disasters.
What were some problems miners faced in the West?
Sickness, bad weather, low gold.
How did Americans react to the establishment of time zones?
They initially rejected it until it became law.
What is one impact of railroads on communication?
They allowed for quicker communication across long distances.
What was a common challenge faced by miners in boomtowns?
Materials running out quickly.
What might a city leader do to prevent a boomtown from becoming a ghost town?
Diversify the economy or promote tourism.
What was the Comstock Lode known for?
It was a major source of silver and gold.
What city has a high density of railroad lines flowing to and from it?
Chicago.
How did railroads contribute to the growth of towns?
They provided access to resources and markets.
Why did boomtowns eventually become ghost towns?
Resources deplete, causing miners to leave.
How do ghost towns serve as historical reminders?
They show the impact of the mining boom and its consequences.
How many tons of precious metals were mined from the Comstock Lode area?
750 million tons.
If it is 2:00 PM in New Orleans, what time is it in Portland, OR?
12:00 PM.
What were some challenges faced by railroad companies during the expansion?
Difficult terrain, financing, and labor shortages.