Santa Fe Trail

Here’s What to Know About the Santa Fe Trail

Intro to the Historic Trail

The Santa Fe Trail was a 19th-century trade route that connected Missouri to New Mexico. It was used by traders, settlers, and soldiers to transport goods and people between the two regions. The trail was over 800 miles long and passed through present-day Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico. The Santa Fe Trail was an important part of the westward expansion of the United States. It helped to open up the Southwest to trade and settlement.

The Trail’s Significance

The Santa Fe Trail was a vital part of the American fur trade. It was also used to transport goods such as cloth, metalware, and food to New Mexico. In return, traders brought back furs, wool, and other goods from New Mexico. The trail also played a role in the settlement of the Southwest. Many settlers used the trail to travel to New Mexico and other parts of the West.

The Santa Fe Trail was also an important military route. It was used by the U.S. Army to transport troops and supplies to the Southwest. The trail was also used by the Mexican Army during the Mexican-American War.

Modern Day

The Santa Fe Trail is no longer used as a trade route. However, it is still an important part of American history. The trail has been designated as a National Historic Trail and is managed by the National Park Service. There are many historical sites along the trail that are open to the public.