The theme of my portfolio is the westward expansion of the United States
via the Oregon Trail. This is a theme that is rich in educational opportunities.
Teachers can use the trail to not only teach about the westward expansion of the United States and the
pioneering experience but also many other things can be taught. For example, the trail can be
used to teach about European and Native American relations, geography, botany, and the
meshing of cultures. This is an exciting theme with a multitude of educational opportunities.
Between 1849 and 1869 an estimated 53,000 people trekked the 2000 mile journey along the
Oregon Trail in search of a better life. Many would die along the way, all would be changed
forever because of their experience. The trip was long and hard but, fortunately for
historians, a vast array of travellers took the time to record the day to day details of
their journey. This literature is a rich resource for inquiry into what life on the trail was like.