The Donner Party was a group of American pioneers who became stranded in the Sierra Nevada during the winter of 1846–1847, and many died from starvation, exposure, and the brutal conditions. When food ran out, some survivors resorted to cannibalism of those who had already died, and only 47 of the original 87 people survived.

What happened

They were trying to reach California in a wagon train, but delays, difficult terrain, and an early heavy snowfall left them trapped near Donner Pass. Rescue parties eventually reached them, but the situation had become a severe survival disaster.

Why it matters

The Donner Party is remembered as one of the darkest episodes in the history of westward migration in the United States. Donner Lake and Donner Pass in California are named after the party.

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