Final answer:
Margaret Frink and her husband, among other settlers, moved to California to escape the challenging weather and environments in the Midwest. Harsh conditions and the difficulty of sustaining a living prompted many to seek better opportunities and climates in California, contributing to the westward expansion of the time.
Step-by-step explanation:
One way Margaret Frink and her husband chose to move to California was to escape unfavorable weather conditions. Like many settlers, the desire for better living conditions and the potential for new opportunities were strong motivators for moving West. The harsh and challenging weather and environment in the Midwest made life difficult for the homesteaders, leading them to seek better conditions elsewhere. Seeking land to farm and the possibility for a new start in life were also significant factors. This move was part of a broader movement during that time, as many people were affected by environmental challenges and looked to California as a place of hope and new beginnings, whether it was for land, gold, or farming opportunities.
The general hardships faced by travelers during this era, such as the lack of food and water experienced by the Henson family, or the frostbitten feet of Henry Morehead, highlight the extreme conditions many faced during their journeys. Despite the various reasons contributing to why individuals and families traveled to California, adverse weather was a common and influential factor in their decision to make the arduous journey. Homesteaders faced bleak environments and struggled to sustain a living, which perpetuated the migration to regions with more favorable climates and conditions found in California.