Final answer:
Boom towns resulting from oil discoveries rapidly grew with businesses catering to new workers, while pre-existing towns had more measured growth and diversified economies. Pre-existing towns developed complex urban issues and eventually built distinct industrial characters, such as Pittsburgh with steel, which contrasted with the often temporary and volatile nature of boom towns.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Boom Towns vs. Pre-Existing Towns
Boom towns that began with the discovery of oil often experienced rapid and somewhat unpredictable growth. Businesses, modes of transportation, and urban planning in these towns were heavily influenced by the sudden influx of wealth and an increase in population seeking employment in the new industry. In contrast, towns that had existed prior to such discoveries developed at a more measured pace, informed by different economic activities and technological advancements over time.
Comparison of Town Development
In a new boom town, one might expect the swift emergence of businesses such as stores, saloons, and service industries catering to the needs of the workforce. As seen in historic towns like those around gold strikes, lawlessness and a focus on short-term gratification often characterized these rapidly-growing settlements. On the other hand, cities like Philadelphia, Boston, and New York, which grew at a steadier rate, evolved around more diverse industries with measured advancements in transportation and urban planning. Over time, these pre-oil discovery cities addressed the myriad issues that came with growth including living conditions, communication, and transportation, which were all usually rooted in social and economic inequalities.Moreover, the economic transitions brought by the industrial revolution and innovations such as the steam engine transformed pre-existing towns. Factories moved from riverbanks to urban centers, creating hubs like Pittsburgh and Chicago that drew populations because of jobs in specific industries. These industrial advances allowed for a more sustained and managed growth compared to the explosive development seen in oil boom towns.