Westward Expansion

It was 1815 and all motion was westward. The reasons were as different as could be, the paths hugely varied, the experiences unique. But the result was the same – over the next three decades almost everything about the United States would change. Put on your boots, grab a horse or climb onto a covered wagon, and join the journey. For kids learning about U.S. history, this issue paints a finely-honed picture of American trailblazers, the trails they blazed, and the pioneer families who used them to create a new life for themselves and the nation. At each turn, kids explore the devastating effect of westward expansion on the American Indian population.

Kids who want more details about American Indians during this period can read about the effect of President Andrew Jackson’s Indian Removal Act, the 800-mile Trail of Tears during Martin Van Buren’s presidency, and the American Indians’ continual battle to retain their land and way of life. Kids captivated by the “wild west” will enjoy the story of the Alamo, the Gold Rush, and the final surge that brought Texas, California and Oregon, Utah, Minnesota, and New Mexico Territories into the United States. And who wouldn’t want to know the backstory of cities named Houston and Austin. It’s all here!

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