Question
This question has two parts.
This excerpt describes the experiences of pioneers on the Oregon Trail in the mid-nineteenth century.
The Oregon Trail was a wagon road stretching 2,170 miles from Missouri to Oregon's Willamette Valley. It was not
a road in any modern sense, only parallel ruts leading across endless prairie, sagebrush desert, and mountains.
.. The promise of free land inspired many to take on and complete the difficult journey.
... In summer, water sources dried up, oxen perished and families endured thirst. Others experienced starvation
when they brought insufficient food supplies and found it impossible to live off the land.
"Basic Facts about the Oregon Trail, " National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
Part A
Based on the excerpt, which effect did physical geography have on westward expansion?
Answer
Physical geography had a significant effect on westward expansion, as the Oregon Trail was difficult to traverse due to its length, lack of modern roads, and lack of water and food sources.