What was life like, the physical environment and challenges, for many settlers in the Midwest? Why did many people decide to expand westward?

Answer: Actually, as harsh as it may sounds, life in the Midwest may be a step down for someone very educated. At best, it could get boring. Also, it could create inherent conflicts and even stifle your lifestyle if you don't share the predominant view. Resident flocked to the Far West for many reasons. They sought adventure, farmland, an escape from the constraints of civilization, and new starts. California was attractive because of its climate and the fact that the Spanish and Mexicans had begun to organize the territory through the mission system. Actually westward expansion was necessary to create independent, virtuous citizens as owners of small farms.