• Identify one pro and one con for choosing each of these three modes of transportation along the Santa Fe Trail: horse, mule, and ox. • Other than being traded, how do livestock and draft animals contribute to successful operation of a trading post in the fur trade era? Objective Critically determine the best mode of transportation along the Santa Fe Trail during the fur trade era and relate the use of animal species as a factor in Westward expansion. Isolate early causes of buffalo population decline. Background Overview Duration: 60 Minutes.