Santa Fe Trail History: Facts and Myths

When was the Santa Fe Trail established?

Was the Santa Fe Trail established in 1821 and initiated trade between Santa Fe and Los Angeles?

Answer:

No, the Santa Fe Trail was not established in 1821 and it did not initiate trade between Santa Fe and Los Angeles.

The Santa Fe Trail was actually established in 1822, not 1821 as commonly believed. It did not connect Santa Fe and Los Angeles, but rather linked Santa Fe, New Mexico with the city of Franklin, Missouri. This historical route was first explored in 1821 by a pioneer named William Becknell.

By the time the railroad began operating in the region in the 1880s, Santa Fe had become a vital stop for loading goods destined for trade with Mexico. Despite the common misconception, the Santa Fe Trail played a crucial role in the development of trade in the region, but it was not established for the purpose of trade between Santa Fe and Los Angeles.