Conestoga Wagon and Westward Expansion

The video explores the complexities of traveling the Oregon Trail, highlighting the historical context of westward expansion following the Louisiana Purchase. It discusses the different types of wagons used, such as the lighter prairie schooner and the heavier conestoga wagon, and the challenges faced by travelers. The video also explains why people rarely rode in wagons due to space and comfort issues, emphasizing the practicalities of walking alongside them.

What was one of the main challenges when choosing a wagon for the Oregon Trail?

• Ensuring the wagon had a roof

• Choosing between speed and strength

• Finding a wagon with a built-in kitchen

• Finding a wagon with enough seats

What event significantly boosted the concept of westward expansion?

• The Civil War

• The Gold Rush

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The Louisiana Purchase

What was the most popular type of wagon used by pioneers on the Oregon Trail?

• Stagecoach

• Covered wagon

• Prairie schooner

• Conestoga wagon

Why was the prairie schooner more suited for long-distance travel?

• It had more seats

• It was lighter and smaller

• It had better suspension

• It could carry more weight

What was the original purpose of the conestoga wagon?

• Farming

• Transporting people

• Hauling freight

• Military use

What was a unique feature of the conestoga wagon compared to the prairie schooner?

• It had a larger and non-flat box

• It was lighter

• It had a flat shape

• It required fewer horses

What type of horses were used to pull the conestoga wagon?

• Conestoga horses

• Clydesdales

• Arabians

• Mustangs

Why were prairie schooners not packed to the brim?

• To avoid damaging the wagon

• To make room for animals

• To leave space for passengers

• To keep the weight manageable for the animals

Why did travelers rarely ride inside the wagons?

• The wagons were too small

• The wagons were already full of belongings

• It was considered bad luck

• The wagons were too fast

What made riding in a prairie schooner uncomfortable?

• Too much noise

• No springs or suspension

• No seats

• Lack of windows