The American West: History, Myth, and Legacy

By: Patrick N. Allitt, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Patrick N. Allitt

Our understanding of the American West has moved far beyond pop culture in recent years. The legendary people and events we associate with the Wild West - the last stand at the Alamo, the Battle of Little Bighorn, the exploits of Calamity Jane, the hardships of the Oregon Trail - are even more fascinating once the historical realities have been separated from the myths.

Designed to shine a light on the American frontier, these 24 lectures are a way for you to experience the grit and grandeur of an epic period in American history. Professor Allitt uncovers new historical angles and perspectives about events and themes ranging from the Lewis and Clark expedition to the Indian Removal Act to the creation America's first national parks.

You'll cover more than 200 years of history and the most important events, themes, and ideas that form the backbone of the frontier's reality - and legend. Among these: the Transcontinental Railroad, the idea of Manifest Destiny, the Gold Rush, the Trail of Tears, and (yes) cowboys. You'll also learn how popular culture - novels like Little House on the Prairie, paintings by artists like Frederic Remington, and decades of Western films - can actually clue us in to the intimate details of life for everyday men and women.

Saddle up for an exciting adventure in learning.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2017 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2017 The Great Courses

Educational entertainment

A basic introduction to a interesting period in time. Not much new here but it's complete, well told and above all entertaining.

Excellent in all ways

Thorough, well organized, great narration, insightful, even at times humorous. Could listen to it again.

Excellent Course

Would love to have the book’s recommendations from it. I listened to several items more than once and actually took notes as I think it will be valuable for my job. Some of the pronunciations are off but I think Texas does that just to identify people who aren’t from Texas.

Wonderful Journey through the Historical West

A fascinating journey through time. Exceptional details of our past and wonderful stories that are shared to enrich our souls of how this nation made its Westward expansion.

Incredible.

Absolutely amazing. Highly recommend this course for anyone looking to learn more about the American West. The only thing I didn’t like was it ending. Listening to these lectures every day on my 30 minute commute to work have been one of the highlights of my day. Loved learning about the history and Professor Allitt has done an incredible job.