What was the significance of the gold rush for the city of Victoria?

• A. It declined due to environmental issues
• B. It became a thriving center for newcomers and businesses
• C. It was renamed
• D. It became a fishing village

Answer: (B)

The gold rush drew a flood of people and money to the area, transforming Victoria into the main hub for the mining region. As thousands of prospectors arrived, the city served as the port, supply center, and administrative seat, hosting merchants, services, and infrastructure to support the new population. This rapid growth created a thriving center for newcomers and businesses, making Victoria a bustling urban and economic focal point. The other options don’t fit because the gold rush did not cause a decline, nor was the city renamed or reduced to a fishing village.