Module 1- Cadillac Desert Chapter 1 Questions
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California State University, Bakersfield *
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3328
Subject
Geology
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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Pages
2
Uploaded by DrTree3945
Dania Chicas Polano
L. Song
GEOL 3328-60
Feb 7, 2024
Module 1- Cadillac Desert Chapter 1 Questions
These questions are meant to guide your reading through Chapter 1. They are by no means the
most important ideas nor are they the only ideas presented in the chapter. All material presented
in the chapter is fair game for the quiz.
This chapter begins with describing the wild west through the account of John Wesley Powell’s
epic expedition down the Colorado River. The chapter then goes on to describe the early settling
of the west through the marketing and various acts of congress.
1. Summarize the Powell Expedition:
In 1869, Powell led the Powell Geographic Expedition
into the uncharted territories of the American West, particularly the Plateau Province, covering
parts of present-day Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. At this time, the region
remained largely unknown, marked "unexplored" on maps. Powell's team embarked on the
Green River in four wooden dories, facing the formidable challenges of the untamed wilderness.
Powell's journey significantly contributed to understanding the geography and geology of the
American West.
2.
How did the railroads convince people to move west?
Railroads convinced people to move west by advertising the West as a fertile
and prosperous land with vast opportunities for economic success and
agricultural wealth. They portrayed it as an ideal destination for settlers seeking a better life.
3.
Give some examples of the lies the railroads used:
Railroads used deceptive advertising by exaggerating the fertility of the land,
downplaying the challenges of farming in arid regions, and providing misleading information
about the climate in order to attract settlers to the West.
4.
How big were the settlements in the Homestead Act? Why was this acreage chosen?
Under the Homestead Act, settlers were offered 160 acres of land. This acreage
was chosen based on the belief that it was sufficient for a family to establish a farm and make a
living, encouraging widespread settlement and cultivation.
5.
What were some of the issues with the Homestead Act?
Issues with the Homestead Act included challenges such as aridity in certain
regions, poor soil quality, and inadequate water sources, making it difficult
for settlers to sustain agriculture. Additionally, the act faced criticism for benefiting large
corporations and speculators instead of small farmers.
6.
How do the East and West differ in terms of precipitation?
The East generally receives more precipitation than the West. The East has a
more humid climate with abundant rainfall, while the West, especially arid and
semi-arid regions face water scarcity issues, requiring irrigation for successful farming.
7.
What disaster did Powell predict? Did it happen?
Powell predicted a disaster related to water management and unsustainable use of water
resources in the West. While his exact prediction did not unfold, his concerns about water
scarcity and management issues proved prescient over time, with subsequent challenges in water
supply and distribution in the West.
8. Do you think Powell would agree with the dams that were built?
Based on Powell's emphasis on sustainable water use, his ecological insights, and understanding
of the fragile nature of the West, he might have reservations about the extensive damming of
rivers. Powell's views would likely prioritize responsible resource management and consider the
environmental consequences of large-scale dam construction on ecosystems and water
sustainability.
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