Everything That Went Wrong For The Donner Party

The Donner Party's journey westward is infamous for its tragic end involving cannibalism. Starting late in May 1846, they faced numerous challenges, including a delayed start, poor food supplies, and a disastrous decision to take the untested Hastings Cutoff. This led to severe hardships, including desert travel difficulties and conflicts within the group. Ultimately, they were trapped by early snow in the Sierra Nevada, leading to starvation and the desperate act of cannibalism. Of the 87 members, only 48 survived to reach California.

What was the ideal time for pioneers to begin their journey westward?

• Early June

• Early March

• Late May

• Mid-April

What was the main reason the Donner Party's departure was delayed?

• The reason for the delay is unknown.

• They were waiting for better weather conditions.

• They needed more time to gather supplies.

• They had to wait for more travelers to join.

What was the primary challenge the Donner Party faced at the Big Blue River?

• Attacks from Native American tribes

• High water levels due to heavy rain

• Lack of food supplies

• Broken wagon wheels

How much food did the Donner Party initially carry for each person?

• 100 pounds of flour and 50 pounds of meat

• 250 pounds of flour and 125 pounds of meat

• 200 pounds of flour and 100 pounds of meat

• 150 pounds of flour and 75 pounds of meat

What was the Hastings Cutoff?

• A path known for its abundant resources

• A shortcut that promised to save 300 miles

• A route recommended by all pioneers

• A well-traveled route to California

Why did the Donner Party decide to take the Hastings Cutoff?

• They were convinced by Hastings' guidebook.

• They needed to find more food supplies.

• They wanted to avoid Native American attacks.

• They were unaware of the dangers.

What was a major consequence of the Donner Party's decision to take the Hastings Cutoff?

• They found a faster route to California.

• They encountered severe weather conditions.

• They lost many of their cattle.

• They were able to restock their supplies.

What happened to the Donner Party in the Wasatch Mountains?

• They faced numerous obstacles and delays.

• They were forced to turn back.

• They discovered a hidden path.

• They found a new guide to lead them.

What was the final outcome for the Donner Party in the Sierra Nevada?

• They resorted to cannibalism to survive.

• They were rescued by another group.

• They found an alternate route.

• They successfully crossed the mountains.

How many members of the Donner Party survived the journey?

• 60

• 48

• 87

• 35