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The Pioneer's Journey In The Oregon Trail

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“The amount of deaths along the Oregon Trail was drastic, and it is estimated that five percent of migrants died on the journey, about 15,000 deaths in total” (Alchin). Pioneers suffered from many issues while on their journey. Due to the many obstacles they would have to overcome. The pioneers traveling on the trails faced the most difficulty trying to survive and thrive in the West due to resources, weather, and disease.
One reason that the pioneers encountered difficulties on the trails, was due to their limited resources. Their journey was approximately six months long, and during that time, supplies became scarce. “As the trip went on, the oxen and horses grew tired and weak. The supplies ran out. The people became desperate for food,” (The Oregon). The referenced website explains exactly how the pioneers struggled. It illustrates how desperate they were and their consistent need for supplies. Pioneers would not be able to survive without the essential resources. “Food, water, and wood were always scarce, and travelers often encountered contaminated water holes” (Johnson and Lamb). Pioneers would be lucky if they completed the trip without a near death experience.
Another reason that the pioneers experienced difficulties was due to weather conditions. Some pioneers would have to travel through the Rocky Mountains, which was plagued …show more content…

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