The Perilous Journey of the Donner Party Through the Sierra Nevada

The Donner party's journey westward was marked by initial optimism, but they faced significant challenges crossing the Sierra Nevada. George Donner's decision to take a shortcut, Hastings Cutoff, proved disastrous, adding distance and difficulty. Stranded by snow, the party faced starvation, leading to cannibalism. Rescue efforts eventually saved some, but the ordeal left a grim legacy.

What was Tamsin Donner's initial impression of their journey?

• They faced many challenges early on.

• They regretted starting the journey.

• It was extremely difficult from the start.

• The journey was surprisingly easy.

What was the main challenge George Donner anticipated?

• Navigating through dense forests.

• Crossing the Sierra Nevada before winter.

• Finding enough food for the journey.

• Dealing with hostile Native American tribes.

What was the intended benefit of taking Hastings Cutoff?

• It was recommended by other travelers.

• It had more scenic views.

• It promised to save two weeks of travel time.

• It was a safer route.

What was the actual outcome of taking the Hastings Cutoff?

• It led them to a dead end.

• It provided more resources along the way.

• It added 100 miles to their journey.

• It saved them time as expected.

What caused the Donner Party to become stranded in the Sierra Nevada?

• A lack of food and water.

• A broken axle and heavy snowfall.

• An attack by wild animals.

• A disagreement among the group.

What did the Donner Party resort to eating after exhausting their food supplies?

• Wild berries and plants.

• Fish from nearby streams.

• Supplies from other travelers.

• Their pack animals and inedible items.

What grim decision did the Donner Party make to survive?

• To split up and find help.

• To resort to cannibalism.

• To build a shelter and wait for spring.

• To ration their remaining food.

How did the Donner Party label the flesh to avoid eating their own kin?

• By keeping it in separate containers.

• By labeling it with names.

• By using different colored cloths.

• By marking it with initials.

What did the final rescue party find when they reached the Donner Party?

• A group that had found a new food source.

• Evidence of cannibalism and a grim scene.

• A group that had moved on to California.

• A thriving group of survivors.

What was the fate of George and Tamsin Donner?

• Both survived and reached California.

• They were found alive by the rescue party.

• George was found dead, and Tamsin's body was never found.

• Both were rescued and returned home.