Final answer:
False. The 19th-century westward expansion primarily focused on resource extraction and settlement, leading to exploitation rather than an increased interest in the environment and wilderness enjoyment by the working class.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the 19th-century westward expansion in the United States, the working class was predominantly involved in labor-intensive industries like mining, logging, and agriculture. This period was characterized by the exploitation of natural resources, driven by economic motives rather than environmental preservation or leisure. The working class faced harsh conditions, working to extract resources from the land rather than nurturing a deep appreciation for nature.
The industrial revolution and the push for economic growth led to the prioritization of resource extraction over environmental conservation. While some individuals might have developed a personal affinity for the wilderness, the broader trend among the working class was tied more to survival and economic sustenance rather than fostering an environmental consciousness or pursuing leisure activities in nature.
Correct answer: False