Recognition

A Masterwork and Winner of The Pulitzer Prize for History

Book Overview

Frederic L Paxson’s History of the American Frontier offers a sweeping account of the American West and the country’s westward expansion from 1763-1893.

Content and Themes

This gripping journey through the heart of America’s past is a must-read for every student of American history. Paxson masterfully paints a picture of how the land of the United States was settled over approximately 150 years, starting with the English settlers in New England and tracing the expansion across the continent, ending at the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Paxton’s literary genius shines through in this meticulously researched chronicle as he takes a historical, geographic, and pragmatic view of Westward expansion. He masterfully illuminates the untamed expanses, courageous pioneers, and the pivotal events in American history, from the War for Independence to the Louisiana Purchase, regional conflicts with Native Americans as well as the Civil War. In addition to these events that shaped American history, Paxton offers keen insight into the intricacies behind the scenes of frontier finance, executive orders from Presidents Washington to Roosevelt, and an inside look at the corporations who constructed and managed the canals and railroads.

Accolades

The vivid portrait Paxton paints of this captivating era in American history was worthy of The Pulitzer Prize he received in History for his portrayal of the intense struggles, the hard-won triumphs, and the pioneer spirit.

Additional Features

This beautifully designed edition includes 10 easy-to-read maps so the reader can follow along on the journey west.