Desperate Passage Critical Review

Ironically, one of the most often recounted stories centered around the pioneer trek to California is that of the group of 87 American pioneers known as the Donner Party. The wagons left in May, 1846 and opted to try a new, faster route through Utah and Nevada which slowed their progress and resulted in a loss of wagons, horses, and cattle. Hoping to be in California by September, the delay trapped them in the snowy Sierra Nevada Mountains by early November. Most of the stayed in three cabins that were already on the route, but as food ran low, 15 members attempted to reach California on snowshoes. Rescue attempts originating in California were delayed because of the Mexican-American War and harsh weather. Of the 15 members who set out wearing snowshoes only seven survived by resorting to cannibalism. In February, 1847, the first rescue group reached...
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