Mainly covers the period 1754-1917.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 225-227) and index.

Traces the mass human migration across the North American continent.

"In July 1845, John L. O'Sullivan wrote an editorial in the United States Magazine and Democratic Review in which he proclaimed that it was the nation's "Manifest Destiny ... to overspread the continent allotted by Providence for the free development of our yearly multiplying millions." With the support of President James K. Polk, Manifest Destiny became a rallying cry for the United States' attempted occupation of the entire North American continent, and at the time served to justify the nation's appropriation of Native American lands. Thus the American West was opened for conquest and settlement. Atlas of Westward Expansion comprehensively traces the mass human migration across this continent and shows how America's national identity was shaped through the pioneer spirit and, later, Manifest Destiny. Beginning with the legendary explorations of Daniel Boone, Zebulon Pike, and Lewis and Clark and the formation of territories through land agreements such as the Treaty of Paris and the Louisiana Purchase, the Atlas shows how the settling of the West would not have been possible without technological innovations (Eli Whitney's cotton gin), vital trade (fur) and improved transportation (the Transcontinental Railroad). The book captures the pioneer spirit so distinctly that readers will feel they are experiencing events, such as a cattle drive or a gold rush, firsthand. A wide range of illustrations brings the experience and meaning of the frontier to life. Nearly 100 original two-color maps by Iauded cartographer and illustrator Molly Braun pinpoint early expeditions, locations of territories, population statistics, tribal locations, early roads and more. Braun has also rendered numerous pen-and-ink drawings depicting historical artifacts such as weapons, clothing and tools. More than 70 black-and-white photographs and period maps detail the formidable cast of personalities and settings that characterized the West. Some key events covered include: Daniel Boone's heroic defense of Kentucky settlements during the American Revolution; the story of Franklin--the state that never was; formation of the Indian Territory; trade routes along the Santa Fe Trail; Sacajawea's vital contributions to the Lewis and Clark expedition. Whether outlining Jedediah Smith's travels in the Great Basin or describing the trigger guard on Samuel Colt's six-shooter, Atlas of Westward Expansion is an exciting and authoritative reference to this important part of American history."--Jacket.

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