Question

The city of Independence, Missouri, was founded in 1827. In the mid-1800s, the city boomed and flourished as a result of pioneers from the east pushing westward on the California-Oregon trail. Independence was the “jumping off” point for the trail in the east. Thousands of pioneers crowded into Independence each spring. They flooded the town’s general stores and blacksmith and carpenter shops. Independence was their last chance to purchase something they might need for the long journey ahead.



Which statement BEST summarizes the passage?