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Describe two problems faced by the American Government in settling the West. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Describe two problems faced by the American Government in settling the West.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe two problems faced by the American Government in settling the West. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Problem 1: Difficulty in Settling the Plains
Answer
One significant problem in settling the West was the challenge of getting settlers onto the Plains. The land was often difficult to traverse, particularly when considering the transportation methods available at the time. Settlers relied heavily on Prairie Schooners, which were slow and cumbersome. Additionally, the government faced logistical challenges in funding a transcontinental railroad, which would connect the east and west coasts. Although the Pacific Railroads Act in 1861 aimed to facilitate this, construction was not completed until 1869, causing delays in access to essential resources and markets.
Step 2
Problem 2: Conflicts with Native Americans
Answer
Another significant issue involved conflicts with Native American tribes already inhabiting the Plains. Many settlers faced aggressive resistance as they encroached on the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples. The settlers often disrupted hunting grounds, leading to violent clashes. The government struggled to manage these tensions, especially when Native Americans retaliated against settlers. Such conflicts underscored the complexities of implementing policies for land acquisition and the accompanying need for military intervention.