Why does New Jersey have more toxic waste dumps and California have more lawyers? New Jersey had first choice.

The Golden State and the Garden State may seem like an unlikely pairing for a comparison, but a closer look at their respective histories reveals a fascinating tale of how two of America's most iconic states ended up with such distinct reputations. On one hand, New Jersey has long been associated with industrial decay and toxic waste, earning it the dubious distinction of having some of the country's most polluted landscapes. On the other, California is often seen as a hub of innovation and litigation, with a seemingly insatiable appetite for lawyers. The question remains, however: why did New Jersey become the go-to destination for toxic waste dumps, while California became the land of lawyers? The answer lies in the history of the two states and a rather unexpected twist of fate.

It turns out that New Jersey had first choice, or so the story goes. As the United States began to expand and industrialize in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the need for landfills and waste disposal sites grew exponentially. At the time, New Jersey was seen as an attractive location for such facilities due to its proximity to major industrial centers, such as New York City and Philadelphia, as well as its extensive network of waterways and transportation infrastructure. As a result, many of the country's most notorious toxic waste dumps were built in New Jersey, leaving a lasting legacy of environmental degradation.

Meanwhile, California was busy building a reputation as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. The state's booming economy, fueled by the growth of the tech industry and the rise of Hollywood, created a fertile ground for the development of new industries and business models. As the state's economy expanded, so too did its need for lawyers to navigate the complex web of regulations and contracts that came with it. The presence of some of the country's most prestigious law schools, including Stanford and UC Berkeley, further solidified California's position as a hub of legal expertise.

However, some argue that New Jersey's early lead in the waste disposal industry was not solely due to its geography or infrastructure. Rather, it was also a result of a conscious decision to prioritize economic growth over environmental concerns. At the time, the state's leaders were eager to capitalize on the industrial boom, and the revenue generated by waste disposal was seen as a welcome boost to the local economy. In contrast, California's economy was driven more by the tech and entertainment industries, which required a different set of skills and expertise, including a large number of lawyers.

In the decades that followed, the two states continued to develop along distinct paths. New Jersey's legacy as a hub of industrial activity continued, with the state becoming home to some of the country's most polluted sites, including the infamous Love Canal disaster. Meanwhile, California's economy continued to boom, driven by the growth of the tech industry and the rise of the digital age. As the state's economy expanded, so too did its reputation as a hub of litigation, with many of the country's most prominent law firms setting up shop in Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Today, the contrast between the two states is striking. While New Jersey continues to grapple with the legacy of its industrial past, California is home to some of the country's most innovative and forward-thinking industries. And yet, despite their differences, both states remain integral to the fabric of the American economy. As the country continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see how these two states continue to shape their respective identities, and whether New Jersey can finally shake off its reputation as a hub of toxic waste, while California continues to thrive as a land of lawyers.