USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -In the spring of 1846, a group of nearly 90 emigrants left Springfield, Illinois, and headed west. Led by brothers Jacob and George Donner, the group attempted to take a new and supposedly shorter route to California.

Detailed explanation-2: -Fast Facts: The Donner Party About half of a group of nearly 90 settlers heading to California in 1846 starved when snowbound. Disaster was caused by taking an untested route which added weeks to the journey. Survivors eventually resorted to cannibalism.

Detailed explanation-3: -On April 15, 1846, the families of James Reed and George and Jacob Donner departed from Springfield, Illinois to start a new life in California. About 100 miles from Independence, Missouri the group of 31 joined a large wagon train.

Detailed explanation-4: -During the fourth and final relief mission in mid-April of 1847, the rescuers only found one survivor among the gruesome remains of half-consumed corpses and severed limbs. The last man alive was Lewis Keseberg, an irascible German immigrant who was found in possession of Donner family gold and heirlooms.

Detailed explanation-5: -The party was trapped by exceptionally heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada, and, when food ran out, some members of the group reportedly resorted to cannibalism of those already dead. It was the worst disaster of the overland migration to California. Donner Lake and Donner Pass, California, are named for the party.