The Oxford History of the American West

More about the book

When envisioning the American West, we often picture iconic images like bearded forty-niners, the Oklahoma land rush, and the legendary cowboy. However, these snapshots represent only a fraction of the West's rich history. Spanning over seven centuries, the narrative includes the arrival of the Navajos, early Spanish settlements in New Mexico, and the Mormon migration to the Great Salt Lake, culminating in modern Las Vegas's neon allure. The West embodies a tapestry of diverse cultures and voices, reflecting the complexity of America itself. This comprehensive study assembles the work of twenty-eight leading historians who examine the West from numerous perspectives. They portray it as a distinctive region inhabited by a mix of peoples—native and non-native, European, Asian, African, and Latino—across varied landscapes, from the Pacific Northwest to the Dakota Badlands. The book highlights the wealth generated by historical bonanzas like gold and oil, the West's role in the national economy, and environmental challenges stemming from cattle ranching and national parks. Additionally, it delves into the social dynamics of violence, significant political movements like the Populist Party, and the importance of families in westward migration. Each chapter concludes with an annotated bibliography and a comprehensive index, guiding readers through various topics. With analyses of Western art, literature, and contemporary events, t