Whitman Mission Historical Events

Rene Wrestler from the National Park Service discusses the Whitman Mission's history, focusing on the Whitmans' journey in 1836, their missionary goals, and the cultural interactions with Native Americans. The mission's location was strategic for reaching local tribes. However, cultural differences and the arrival of immigrants led to tensions. A measles outbreak, brought by Oregon Trail immigrants, devastated the local population, leading to the Whitman Massacre. The attack was a response to perceived injustices, resulting in the death of several men and the capture of women and children.

What was the primary goal of the Whitmans when they first traveled to the Pacific Northwest?

• To save souls

• To explore new lands

• To establish a trading post

• To farm the land

What did the phrase 'looking for the Book' get translated into, sparking the missionary movement?

• The Quran

• The Bible

• The Constitution

• The Torah

Why was the location of the Whitman Mission considered strategic?

• It had several rivers and high grass

• It was close to a favorite camping ground of a chief

• It was near a major city

• Both B and C

What was a significant factor that initially brought the Whitmans and the local tribes together?

• Shared religious beliefs

• Mutual interest in trade

• Desire to learn each other's language

• Both groups wanted to be together

What was one of the main cultural challenges faced by the Whitmans and the local tribes?

• Religious differences

• Different languages and value systems

• Lack of resources

• Competition for land

What did the wagon behind Rene Wrestler represent?

• The arrival of new settlers

• A symbol of peace

• The departure of the Whitmans

• A trading caravan

What disease was brought by the Oregon Trail immigrants that affected the local tribes?

• Influenza

• Cholera

• Measles

• Smallpox

How did the local tribes perceive Dr. Whitman's inability to cure them?

• As a natural occurrence

• As a misunderstanding

• As a sign of his incompetence

• As a deliberate act of neglect

What was the outcome of the attack on the Whitman Mission?

• The Whitmans were forced to leave

• The mission was destroyed

• Men and teenage boys were killed, and others were taken hostage

• The local tribes took over the mission

Who was the only woman killed in the initial attack on the Whitman Mission?

• A missionary from another group

• A female immigrant

• A local tribal woman

• Narcissa Whitman