Part 6/8:
The chaotic political climate in Tacoma during the Gold Rush undermined its ability to respond effectively. Competition from Seattle intensified; by the early 1900s, the Northern Pacific and other rail companies began focusing on Seattle, solidifying its status as the primary rail hub of the Pacific Northwest.
By 1910, Seattle's population had surged to 240,000, while Tacoma's lagged at around 88,000. This marked the critical juncture where Seattle’s economic dominance became undeniable. While Tacoma could have established itself as the region's second prominent city, its decision-making and mismanagement prevented that from happening.