The Donner Party: A Harrowing Tale of Survival and Tragedy

Ordeal by Hunger: The Story of the Donner Party

by George R. Stewart

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17645 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	418 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Donner Party, a group of American pioneers who attempted to travel from Missouri to California in 1846, endured unimaginable hardships and cannibalism during their ill-fated journey. Their story is a fascinating and tragic tale of human endurance and desperation.

The Beginning of the Journey

The Donner Party was led by George Donner and James F. Reed. The group consisted of approximately 87 people, including men, women, and children. They set out from Independence, Missouri, in May 1846, with the intention of traveling the California Trail to Sutter's Fort in California.

The journey began well, but the group soon encountered difficulties. They were poorly prepared for the challenges of the trail, and they made several mistakes that would ultimately cost them dearly.

Disaster Strikes

In July 1846, the Donner Party reached Fort Bridger in Wyoming. Here, they met experienced mountain men who warned them of the dangers of crossing the Rocky Mountains so late in the season. The Donner Party ignored their advice and continued on their journey.

In August 1846, the Donner Party reached Donner Pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Here, they encountered heavy snow and ice. The party became trapped, and their supplies began to run low.

Cannibalism

As the winter wore on, the Donner Party became desperate. They resorted to cannibalism in Free Download to survive. The first victims were those who had died from starvation or exposure. Eventually, the party members began to kill each other for food.

In April 1847, a rescue party finally reached Donner Pass. Of the 87 people who had started the journey, only 48 survived. The Donner Party had endured unimaginable hardships, and their story is a tragic reminder of the dangers of the California Trail.

Legacy of the Donner Party

The Donner Party has left a lasting legacy. Their story is a reminder of the challenges faced by the early pioneers who settled the American West. It is also a story of human endurance and desperation.

Today, Donner Pass is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can learn about the history of the Donner Party at the Donner Memorial State Park.

The Donner Party is a fascinating and tragic story of survival and tragedy. Their ill-fated journey is a reminder of the challenges faced by the early pioneers who settled the American West. It is also a story of human endurance and desperation.

Ordeal by Hunger: The Story of the Donner Party

by George R. Stewart

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17645 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	418 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE