The west began to take in a larger population between the 1840's and the 1890's. There were many factors which contributed to this increase in the west some of which were the natural environment, the government, railways, and the migration of the oppressed Mormons along with poor people wanting cheap land. Which of these was the most significant factor? I would have to say the natural environment. Many cities were formed around gold mines, rivers, …showed first 75 words of 796 total…

…showed last 75 words of 796 total…by the Gold rush of the late 1840's. To say it was the only isn't true because of the pioneers which settled in Salt Lake City after being oppressed in the east, and the pioneers that moved onto Oregon because of the cheap land and lush forest. The railroad companies played a huge part in bringing people west as well. So there were many contributing factors the natural environment being one of the most significant.