Final answer:
US cultural hearths on the East Coast formed distinct cultures that spread westward, including the Industrial Revolution influence from New England and diverse immigration in the Mid-Atlantic. The Delaware River area was an industrial powerhouse influenced by a wide range of European immigrants. The Salt Lake hearth is known for its religious diversity, especially due to the influence of the Mormon faith. The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of US cultural hearths refers to the pivotal regions where distinctive ways of life, practices, and cultural traits developed and expanded over time. These cultural hearths serve as the origin points from which cultural characteristics were disseminated across a wider area.
East Coast Cultural Hearths
The East Coast cultural hearths, specifically the New England, Mid-Atlantic, and Southern regions, had unique cultures that influenced westward migration. The New England colonies, for instance, contributed to North America's Industrial Revolution due to their focus on subsistence agriculture and fishing, alongside industrial development in cities like Boston. Urban and folk practices throughout these regions eventually helped shape our contemporary society.
Delaware River Hearth
The Delaware River hearth became synonymous with industrial development due to its diverse population resulting from immigration from places like Germany, Scandinavia, and Holland, along with the significant contribution of African ancestry. This led to the evolution of a Midwestern folk culture that anticipated aspects of what became known as "mainstream" American culture.
Salt Lake Hearth
In contrast, the Salt Lake hearth is characterized by religious diversity, with the settlement primarily formed around the Mormon faith, which continues to influence the social and cultural landscape of the region.