All the options you provided can contribute to making travel on a steamboat dangerous. Here’s a brief explanation of each:
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Indian attacks: During the westward expansion in the United States, steamboats traveling through Indian territories sometimes faced hostility, leading to potential attacks.
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Hidden obstacles in the water: Steamboats were often at risk of hitting submerged logs, rocks, or other debris that could damage the hull or cause capsizing.
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Fires: Steamboats were powered by steam engines fueled by wood or coal, and the risk of onboard fires was significant due to the highly flammable materials and equipment involved.
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Swift currents: Rivers could have fast-flowing sections that could be difficult for steamboats to navigate, potentially leading to accidents or loss of control.
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Changing channels: River channels were not always consistent and could change due to erosion or sediment deposition, making navigation challenging.
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Collisions: With many vessels operating on rivers, the risk of collision with other boats was a serious concern.
Given these points, all of the factors you've mentioned can be classified as contributing to the dangers of traveling on a steamboat.
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