Question

How did the miners help settle the west?

They provided gold for everyone, including those they traveled with.
       As they mined, they stayed and settled towns.
       They did nothing special.
       In order to help financially with mining, they herded cattle on the land.
        During their breaks from mining the land, they helped build railroads.

Answer 1

In the beginning, the West was a region without much infrastructure and people. When mining came, it attracted investment and workers.

Answer 2

Miners followed mineral deposits. Towns followed the miners.