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13 American Settlers

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Much like the empires of ancient days, America’s future was tied to western expansion. People had many different motivations for wanting to start a new life. Many were unable to obtain the quality of life they desired in the eastern portions of the country, and had heard of the riches of the west. Others wanted to set out on an adventure. Whatever their motivation, whole communities set out to start a new future in the West. Ever since Christopher Columbus landed in the Americas, settlers have been drawn to fresh sources of wealth. When the original 13 American Colonies won their independence from the United Kingdom, they were award vast stretches of land. These lands were further expanded via treaties and conquest. The U.S. government enticed people to head west and settle in these new territories. Robert Robe and Mary Bailey …show more content…
Some people wanted more out of life than the mundane routine of city life. Robert Robe documented multiple entries about his community hunts. He describes over a thousand buffalo roaming and the surrounding wildlife that thrived near the herds. A lot of early Western settlers were unprepared for the arduous journey that they faced. Some were, however, more prepared for the quest than others. Robert Robe documents his hunts and describes the variety of game animals that existed during his travels. This shows that resources existed to help those who were prepared to hunt along their way.
Mary Bailey, however, appears to focus on documenting her party’s struggles. Rainfall and bad weather in general made the trip not only slow, but dangerous as well. She makes entries in her diary on Friday, May 21st, Sunday July 4th, and Saturday September 18th regarding struggles they endured in dealing with the weather. Settlers were unprepared for the torrential rains and bitter cold that awaited them. Livestock and settlers alike often became sick and perished as a

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