WESTWARD EXPANSION INDUSTRIALIZATION URBANIZATION 1870 1900
WESTWARD EXPANSION
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Question
[CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
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sickness
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running out of food and water
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high taxes in the west
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rough terrain and strong rivers that must be crossed
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Detailed explanation-1: -As settlers and homesteaders moved westward to improve the land given to them through the Homestead Act, they faced a difficult and often insurmountable challenge. The land was difficult to farm, there were few building materials, and harsh weather, insects, and inexperience led to frequent setbacks.
Detailed explanation-2: -Stream and river crossings, steep descents and ascents, violent storms, and the persistent threat of disease among large groups of travelers were the most common challenges. Disease was the greatest threat on the trail, especially cholera, which struck wagon trains in years of heavy travel.
Detailed explanation-3: -Sandstorms were common crossing the plains. Also thunder storms, flooding or droughts could put a party in danger. Wagon trains could also be hit by disease. Cholera or typhus could strike and affected families would be left behind so as to not to spread the disease.
Detailed explanation-4: -Gold rush and mining opportunities (silver in Nevada) The opportunity to work in the cattle industry; to be a “cowboy” Faster travel to the West by railroad; availability of supplies due to the railroad. The opportunity to own land cheaply under the Homestead Act.