The conditions were usually of natural causes. For example, since homesteaders relied on self-sufficiency and were mostly agricultural throughout history, a homesteader might suffer immeasurably if a drought hit and destroyed all their crops since it was their only source of income. Sometimes however in the United States they could also get raided by bandits or Native Americans since they would be usually settling in new areas towards the western frontier.
They relied on some technological advancements to survive. For example, they used barbed wires and weaponry to fend off unwanted animals or people who would try to harm them. They would also use things like the steel plow to help ensure that their land was better suited for crops. Some also relied on windmills both for power and for things like grinding grains.<span />
The first president of the USA was George Washington.
Besides silk, the Chinese also exported (sold) teas, salt, sugar, porcelain, and spices. Most of what was traded was expensive luxury goods. This was because it was a long trip and merchants didn't have a lot of room for goods. They imported, or bought, goods like cotton, ivory, wool, gold, and silver.
True. They didn't have anything to write with or write on.