2. Why Go? Panic of 1837- Huge depression leaves farmers broke Free land- Up to a square mile Fertile soil, nicer weather, fewer diseases and insects (especially mosquitoes)

3. When to Leave? Must leave in early May. Usually took 5 months (May – Sept.) Grass needs time to grow in the Great Plains- food for animals Need to beat winter in the Rockies

4. Who Went? Missionaries and mountain men (fur trappers) go first Farmers follow Merchants and speculators come last

6. Facts 2000 miles long Death Rate= 10% (disease and accidents) People walked; wagons for supplies only Usually took 5 months, May – September Indians generally helpful- they wanted trade Most used the SOUTH PASS and were escorted by mountain men -Like Jedediah Smith and Jim Bridger