Make sure to answer all questions in a complate sentence. Main Idea:

During the early 1800s, Americans moved west of the Rocky Mountains to settle and trade.

1. What trade first drew Americans to the West?

2. Why did several countries lay claim to Oregon Country?

Main Idea:

Families moved into the far west and established thriving communities.

1. Without trains and highways, how did travelers reach the West in the mid-1800s?

2. Why might Independence, Mossouri, be a good setting-off point for the trip to the West?