1. DO NOW
Name reasons why someone might move to the Great Plains after the Civil War.
What would be the most difficult challenge in living in that environment?
How do you think you could make a living?

2. Technological Advances allowed people to live in more challenging environments.

3. Technological Advancements
Barbed Wire
To keep animals contained

4. Technological Advancements
Steel Plow
Farmers able to cut through hard soil

5. Technological Advancements
Dry Farming  
Allows famers to grow crops in dry soil.

6. Technological Advancements
Sod houses
Sod packed and stacked together to build homes.
Sod - grass and the part of the soil beneath it held together by the roots.

12. Technological Advancements
Beef Cattle Raising
For meat on the vast plains.

13. Technological Advancements
Wheat farming
Grown for food and money on the plains.

14. Technological Advancements
Windmills
Pump water from the ground using wind power.

15. Technological Advancements
Transcontinental Railroad
Completed in 1869
Provided access to trade and fast transportation.
Moving goods and people!