original_query: What is the significance of Ancaster in the history of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada?
query: What is the significance of Ancaster in the history of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada?
answer: Ancaster was a significant industrial and commercial center in Upper Canada before Hamilton's rise.  Its location at a natural break in the Niagara Escarpment, along major indigenous trade routes, and its access to water power fueled its early growth.  However, transportation advancements in the 19th century favored nearby Hamilton, leading to Ancaster's decline as a major economic hub.  Ultimately Ancaster amalgamated with Hamilton in 2001.