Pioneers in Peril: The Donner Party (Part One)

We in the 21st Century have it decidedly easy as far as travel is concerned. With cars, trains, and airplanes at our disposal, we've the luxury of traveling in comfort, style, and with enough provisions to ensure our satisfaction. But those in 19th Century America weren't as fortunate, making long overland crossings that caused them to face starvation, attacks from hostile Native Americans, and other perils. One such group of pioneers to make the westward journey was the so-named Donner Party, whose name has become synonymous with some of humanity's darker practices. Tune in this week for part one of their notorious journey, though you might want to hold off on the fava beans and Chianti when you do.