Question

practice vocabulary

1. what role did vigilantes play on the western mining frontier?
2. why was solving the gauge problem the key to creating an efficient rail network?

critical thinking and writing

1. generate explanations why might a sudden surge of people into an area cause problems other than environmental ones?
2. express problems clearly what problems did an excess of competition cause for railroad companies and some customers?

Explanation:

1. Vigilantes on the western mining frontier often took law - enforcement into their own hands to maintain order in the absence of formal authority.
2. Different rail gauges (widths between the rails) meant trains couldn't easily transfer between lines. Standardizing gauges allowed for seamless movement of trains and freight, thus creating an efficient rail network.
3. A sudden influx of people can cause social problems like over - burdening public services (e.g., schools, hospitals), housing shortages, and increased crime due to competition for resources.
4. Excess competition among railroad companies could lead to price wars, which might result in reduced service quality as companies cut costs to stay competitive. For customers, it could also lead to confusion and inefficiencies in route planning.

Answer:

1. They often took on law - enforcement roles in the absence of formal authority.
2. Because different gauges hindered seamless train and freight movement, and standardizing gauges enabled it.
3. It can cause social problems like over - burdening public services, housing shortages, and increased crime.
4. It could lead to price wars and reduced service quality for companies, and confusion for customers.