During which significant industrial change did West Virginia's coal industry grow?

The significant industrial change during which West Virginia's coal industry experienced substantial growth was the Industrial Revolution. This period, occurring approximately from the late 18th century through the 19th century, marked a major turning point in history. It involved a shift from agrarian economies to industrialized and urban ones. The demand for coal surged as it became a primary source of energy for steam engines, factories, and later, railroads.

West Virginia, with its abundant coal deposits, emerged as a crucial player in the coal industry during this era. The state's geological formations contained rich coal seams that were exploited to meet the growing energy needs of industries. As factories proliferated and transportation networks expanded, coal mining became a vital industry, leading to economic growth and the development of mining towns across the state. This transformation laid the foundation for West Virginia's economy and community structures centered around coal production.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to different historical contexts or technological advancements that do not directly relate to the initial surge of the coal industry in West Virginia. The Environmental Movement focuses on awareness and actions to protect the natural environment, which came much later, while both the Technological Revolution and Information Age involve advancements that arose long after the Industrial Revolution had underscored