Trails and Wagon Trains Flashcards

What were the Oregon, California, Santa Fe and Mormon Trails?

Long overland routes across the West used by settlers and traders to reach new places.

About 3,200 km, taking around 4 to 6 months at 15–25 km per day.

To have fresh grass for animals and to cross mountain passes before winter snow.

For safety, to share jobs, help with river crossings and repairs, and protect people and animals.

A wagon master. They set rules, chose the route and camps, kept the pace, and organised guards and scouts.

They were strong, steady, cheaper than horses, ate prairie grass, and were less likely to panic.

Food like flour, bacon and beans, water, tools, spare parts, and tents. Most people walked beside the wagon.

Parking wagons in a ring at night to pen animals and give some defence.

Disease like cholera, river drownings, accidents, and bad weather. Attacks were rare compared to these.

They used shallow fords or ferries, lightened loads, and sometimes doubled up teams to pull through.

Places like Fort Laramie and Independence Rock helped with rest, repairs, buying supplies, and navigation.

A wide, low route through the Rocky Mountains that made wagon travel possible across the range.