Access to this video is a benefit for members through PBS Passport.
Up Next
Back to Show
The West
One Sky Above Us
Season 1996
Episode 9
As the 20th century neared, Americans celebrated with the World Columbian Exposition, where they were told that the frontier had closed – symbolized by one state proudly displaying an entire heard of buffalo – stuffed. But in the real West, for every frontier story that ended, another one began.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
58:38
As settlers race to claim tribal lands, Native Americans take up the Ghost Dance.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:24:53
Newcomers arrive by the millions, bringing a spirit of conformity to the West.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:25:06
The federal government tightens its grip on the West.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:24:33
A triumph of the human spirit, the transcontinental railroad opens a new era in the West.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:24:47
Civil war comes early to the West.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:24:49
The Gold Rush brings the whole world to the West.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:24:31
Americans head west along many pathways.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:20
The West begins as the whole world to the people who live there. It becomes a New World.