American Experience

The Way West: Westward, the Course of Empire Takes Its Way/Approach of Civilization (7x8)

Air date: May 08, 1995

"The Way West," a chronicle of the American expansion west of the Mississippi and its tragic consequences for Native Americans. The first part examines how millions were inspired to strike out for new territories. Included: tensions between settlers and Native Americans; the 1864 Sand Creek Massacre. Russell Baker is the narrator. The second part examines how U.S. Army involvement and railroad construction contributed to loss of Native American land. Events covered include military campaigns against the Lakota Sioux; and Red Cloud's negotiation of the Fort Laramie treaty of 1868. Russell Baker is the narrator.