There was one more reason: Uber debuted in NYC. NYC has a limited number of taxi medallions and therefore a limited number of taxis which is a problem because d

There was one more reason: Uber debuted in NYC. NYC has a limited number of taxi medallions and therefore a limited number of taxis which is a problem because demand outpaced supply. Uber provided additional drivers/vehicles. Also initially it paid better while taxi medallions were no longer owned by the drivers but rather by what amounted to wage-slave owners. As a result some people felt it was better to support this nee gig economy as it put more money into the pockets of drivers. Oh and did I mention it was slightly cheaper than equivalent yellow cab rides because it was VC subsidized? Turns out when you sell dollar bills for 90 cents you can get loads of customers.