Which city passed the first traffic law in America, and what did it prohibit?

The city that passed the first traffic law in America was New Amsterdam, and this noteworthy regulation prohibited riding horses at a gallop. This law reflects early efforts to manage traffic and ensure safety in urban areas, even before the advent of motor vehicles.

The significance of prohibiting galloping horses lies in the need to control the speed of traffic in crowded streets, which was essential for preventing accidents and maintaining order. This regulation set a precedent for future traffic laws that would evolve with the advent of automobiles and other vehicles, illustrating how traffic management has been a concern for city planners and lawmakers throughout history.

Understanding this historical context highlights the ongoing nature of traffic regulation and the importance of public safety measures regardless of the mode of transportation. In contrast to the other options, while they address important aspects of traffic safety as well, they do not represent the first law enacted in American history regarding traffic matters.