A Western Tragedy by Xiores

Vue • Historical • posted on Oct 04, 2007

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Description

A Western Tragedy Economic depressions in 1837 and 1841 frustrated farmers and businessmen alike. The collapse of the international fur trade in 1839 intensified the hard times, and concerns of British domination of the Northwest grew. At the same time, eastern churches saw the American Indians of the Oregon Country as ready candidates for European ideas of civilization. Churches formed ardent missionary societies to create an active appetite for Christianity. In 1836 Marcus Whitman and his new wife, Narcissa, along with Henry and Eliza Spalding, headed for Oregon as missionaries. The letters they sent home publicized the opportunities and advantages of Oregon. Many people for many reasons had become interested in Oregon, but it was not until 1841 that the first group with serious intent to emigrate left the banks of the Missouri river and headed west. In 1843, nearly 1,000 completed the trip – 476 did not (either killed, starved or lost). Done in Vue 5I at ultra.Color touch up in Photoshop. Thanks for viewing.