Showcases the discovery, settlement, and development of the western territory, from the Appalachians to the California coast. The book chronicles the full story, from 1800 to 1950. This exciting volume profiles the explorers, settlers, and fortune-seekersas well as Native Americansand how they shaped the West. More than 900 amazing images, hundreds in color, with rich, detailed captions. More than 90 sidebars on such wide-ranging topics as the Texas Revolution, the Oklahoma land rush, and the Dust Bowl. In addition, "eyewitness" sidebars offer vivid, first-hand accounts from those who lived through the West's most pivotal events. A 1,400-item timeline captures all significant moments and developments of the American West.