What role did West Virginia play in the early industrial era of the United States?

West Virginia played a critical role in the early industrial era of the United States primarily by supplying coal and lumber for industrial growth. The state is rich in natural resources, particularly coal, which became a vital energy source during the industrialization that took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Coal was crucial for powering factories, railroads, and homes, which were all essential components of the growing industrial economy.

Additionally, the vast Appalachian forests provided an abundant supply of timber, which was essential for construction and various manufacturing processes. The combination of coal and lumber resources established West Virginia as an industrial powerhouse, contributing significantly to the economic development of the region and the nation as a whole during this transformative period. This focus on resource extraction and supply fundamentally shaped West Virginia's economy and its role in supporting industrial growth across the United States.