In the latter part of the 19th century, more than half a million pioneers headed west to carve out a future on an unknown frontier. Some were drawn by the offer of cheap land and the promise of religious freedom while others had high hopes of finding gold. Thrilling, authentic photos and full-color illustrations recreate what life was really like for these cowboys, adventurers, and immigrants in this rough-and-ready era in our history.Journeying west by wagon train was like traveling in a tiny, moving town with its own community, food, tools, and government. Clear, informative text along with beautifully detailed photographs and illustrations help describe a typical day on the trail including: -- the strengths and weaknesses of the wagons-- how food was prepared-- the dangers of crossing mountains and rushing rivers-- Native Americans distrust of the travelers who brought disease to their people and destruction to the buffalo

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