The American West. Visions and Revisions: 50 (New Studies in Economic and Social History)
Cambridge University Press, 12/2/2004
EAN 9780521593335, ISBN10: 0521593336
Hardcover, 180 pages, 21.6 x 14 x 1.4 cm
Language: English
This is a succinct survey of the numerous contributions to the history of the American west. In the past twenty-five years historians have created a 'New Western History', which has aimed to rewrite the 'Old Western History' created around the famous Turner thesis on the significance of the American Frontier. Focusing on five main themes, this study examines and discusses the dynamics and progress of recent scholarship. Consideration is given to issues of land use, the environment, race, ethnicity, gender, business and the development of communities. Synthesising prolific research, the book offers a clear and up-to-date review for all students of American history. A full bibliography is provided for more extended study.
1. The Frontier and the West
realities, myths and the historians
2. Lands and landscapes
occupation and ownership
3. Peoples and migrations
4. Making a living
early settlements and farming
5. Making a living
non farming occupations
6. Western communities
7. Epilogue.