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Welcome to Independence Missouri's Oregon Trail! |
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The Oregon trail started in Independence Missouri and was exceptionally difficult by today's standards. 1 in 10 died along the way. Many people think that Native Americans were the major threat to the settlers, that is a misconception, the most Native American tribes were quite helpful to the settlers. The real threat to the settlers was cholera, poor sanitation, and suprisingly, accidents such as gunshots. |
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Many settlers driving force for moving west was the offer of free land. Married couples were allowed up to 640 acres at NO COST. Single people were given 320 acres. The regular wagons of the time were not up to the arduous task of the of the Oregon Trail. Hence the advent of the "prairie schooner". These wagons were half the size of the big "Conestogas" wagons and were designed for the trails rough conditions. |
If you are interested in more information on the Oregon Trail then Click Here for a web site that is useful.