Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to Bit more complicated than that,

re: Bit more complicated than that,
e — (archived)

By the same arguments mining should have boomed in Mexico after its independence in 1821 and gold was needed for its new economy. And you didn't need a railraod to get the 49'ers placer gold to the cean and world markets. But it didn't until California and the western U.S. was in U.S hands, and under U.S. mining laws, that gold and silver was found in quantities.

Now compare it to Mexico in the same time frame. There were a few new mines, but nothing like what you found north of the border. Instead you have many stories of Mexicans finding gold and silve mines by accident, taking just enough in secret to help their famialies, and then hiding the mines from the government who would take everything. Yes, most of these "lost" mines are probably folk tales, but they also indicate a mind set not supportive of developing a regions mineral resources.

In old California you didn't cry Eurkea if you found gold, you just looked quietly over your shoulder to see if anyone saw you and would report you to the government. Then you kept it a closely guarded family secret.

But saying there is nothing of value on the Moon today is just like saying their is nothing of value in California in the ealry 1840's. It free enterprise and capitalists that create wealth from natural resources.

Log in or register to post.

The whole thread (38 posts)