0
The Donner Party took the California Trail, which was part of the larger westward migration routes in the mid-1800s. They initially traveled along the Missouri River and then followed the trail through present-day Wyoming, where they encountered the South Pass. Unfortunately, they made a critical decision to take a shortcut through the Sierra Nevada mountains, known as the Hastings Cutoff, which ultimately led to delays and their tragic entrapment in the snow during the winter of 1846-1847.
What else can I help you with?
By which route did miners reach California?
Gold seekers attempted to reach California in several ways. Trains did not traverse the distance, but could be taken to about the Mississippi River. Then seekers would travel by wagon or horse and possibly walking. Others took the long arduous trip around South America to reach the American west coast.
Which event increased interest in a railroad route to California?
There were a number of events that increased interest in a route to California. Probably the most important was the acquisition of California in the Mexican-American War, and the immediately following California Gold Rush. The Civil War added urgency to the transcontinental Railroad, and was very important as well.
What was not a primary route for people emigrating to California during the Gold Rush?
Around cape Horn:)
What was the longest route to California during the Gold Rush?
around Cape Horn
What is the famed highway that carries passengers from Chicago to California?
US Route 66 was a famous highway that went from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Why did the donner party happen?
The Donner party wanted to make a big fortune in California which was prosperous back then; it also encouraged by a route that was 350-400 mile shorter, but this route was not tested.
What was one of the first parties of americans to reach california?
The "Bidwell Party" (Bartleson-Bidwell party) in 1841 was one of the first groups of US citizens to reach California by wagon on the overland route.
Which route did the Bartleson-Bidwell expedition follow to make the overland trip from Missouri to California?
The same route that the Donner Expedition took.
How many died in the donner party?
There were 87 people not including the teamsters or Indians that travelled with them.
What lesson might a western learned from the story of the donner party?
always follow the original route as planned
What lesson might a western traveler have learned from the story of Donner party?
always follow the original route as planned
How did the Donner Party occur?
Welllllll - They basically were heading west to strike it rich in California. THEN, they decided to take a shortcut (known as "Hastings Cutoff"). What they didn't realize is that heavy snow would make this route to California impossible to pass. They slowly pushed on and ultimately were able to send a party of snow-shoer's to get help.
Which mountain range does the Donner Pass cut through?
The Donner Pass cuts through the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. This pass is historically significant as it was a key route for westward migration during the mid-19th century, particularly for the ill-fated Donner Party. It connects the western and eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, providing access to various recreational and transportation routes.
The Donner Pass is how long?
Donner Pass is approximately 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) above sea level and spans around 15 miles (24 kilometers) in length. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, it is known for its historical significance related to the ill-fated Donner Party in the winter of 1846-1847. The pass is now a key route for transportation and recreation in the region.
Why did the donner party use the Hastings cutoff when it was dangerous?
The Donner Party chose to use the Hastings Cutoff primarily due to the promise of a shorter route to California, which they believed would save time and resources. They were influenced by misleading information from Lansford Hastings, who promoted the cutoff as a more direct path despite its challenging terrain. The allure of reaching their destination faster led them to overlook the potential dangers and difficulties associated with the untested route. Ultimately, this decision contributed to their tragic fate in the Sierra Nevada.
Why did James reed and George Donner take Hastings cutoff?
James Reed and George Donner took the Hastings Cutoff in 1846 as an alternative route to California, believing it would provide a quicker path to their destination. They were influenced by Lansford Hastings, who promoted the route as a shorter and more direct way for emigrants. Unfortunately, the cutoff proved to be treacherous and poorly marked, leading to significant delays and hardships for the Donner Party. Their decision ultimately had dire consequences, contributing to the tragic events that unfolded during their journey.
Why did the Donner Party end in disaster?
They tried to take a shorter route to California but instead it took longer and was more difficult and that was their downfall. As Virginia Reed who survived advised - "Don't take no shortcuts and hurry along as fast as you can."
