USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Which would be best to pull your heavy wagons? Mules are strong, can go faster, but are often tricky to handle. Mules also had tendencies to bolt and become unruly. Oxen are slower, but more reliable and tougher than mules.

Detailed explanation-2: -The covered wagon was one of the main methods of transportation, often drawn by oxen or mules. Wagons in the nineteenth century varied widely depending on what they were used for.

Detailed explanation-3: -Oxen were chosen over horses to pull the wagons because of their strength, and because they were noted for being easier to work. They were generally docile, gentle, easily guided by a child, and strong enough to lug heavy wagons over rough terrain.

Detailed explanation-4: -“Oxen pulled the timber and hauled the covered wagons west. They plowed the ground. They moved the freight.” Also, as the covered wagons moved west on the Oregon Trail, those pulled by oxen were more likely to reach their destinations than those pulled by horses.

Detailed explanation-5: -Although horses and mules could travel faster than oxen, most emigrants chose the latter to pull their covered wagons.