Final answer:
The most significant danger for Oregon Trail travelers was disease outbreaks, which were more deadly than Native American attacks or other potential threats.
Step-by-step explanation:
The biggest danger faced by travelers on the Oregon Trail was disease outbreaks. The trail stretched for about 2,000 miles from Independence, Missouri, to Oregon's Willamette Valley. Despite popular beliefs about wagon circles defending against Native American attacks, illnesses such as cholera and dysentery were the deadliest threats, claiming many lives. Accidents, including drownings during river crossings, were also frequent. It was found that fewer than 120 travelers were killed by Native American attacks, highlighting that disease and other travel-related dangers posed a greater risk to safety during the long and difficult journey westward.