Final answer:
Half of the population of western Nebraska in 1892 decreased due to the harsh weather conditions and low rainfall, making crop cultivation difficult and livelihoods unsustainable. Also, the discovery of ores in other regions led to a population migration.
Step-by-step explanation:
By 1892, half the population of western Nebraska, primarily made up of
homesteaders, faced significant challenges due to a multitude of factors. The environment presented harsh weather conditions and typical low rainfall, making crop cultivationstrenuous. Irrigation was challenging due to the scarcity of water and the high costs of developing sufficient systems. This made life extremely difficult for many settlers, causing a decrease in the population as many were not able to sustain their livelihoods. Moreover, the discovery of precious ores in other regions led to a migration of people seeking wealth, further decreasing the population in Nebraska.
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