Final answer:
The settlement of the West led to the decline of the buffalo population and environmental damage due to mining.
Step-by-step explanation:
The settlement of the West had a significant impact on the buffalo population and the environment. As more settlers moved into the region, they hunted buffalo for various purposes, including food, hides, and sport. This led to a sharp decline in the buffalo population, as they were killed in large numbers without considering sustainable hunting practices.
In addition to hunting, mining activities also caused environmental damage. The mining industry boomed in the West, with mining operations extracting valuable resources such as gold, silver, and copper. However, these activities often resulted in deforestation, water pollution, and soil erosion, which had a detrimental effect on the environment.
Overall, the settlement of the West played a role in the decline of the buffalo population and caused environmental damage through mining activities.
Learn more about Settlement of the West, decline of buffalo population, environmental damage