Why did geographical differences help to widen the split between eastern and western Virginia?

Geographical differences such as the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley created physical barriers that made communication and travel between eastern and western Virginia difficult, leading to cultural and economic disparities. The western region, with its rugged terrain and varied industries, developed distinct interests and perspectives from the more urbanized and plantation-based eastern Virginia. These differences in geography and economy contributed to a sense of separate identities and priorities, widening the split between the two regions.