This book is a compilation of the detailed journals kept by two explorers during their expedition across the American West, from 1804 to 1806. The journals provide a first-hand account of their encounters with Native American tribes, their observations of new plant and animal species, and the challenges they faced while traversing uncharted territories. The explorers' writings not only offer insights into their historic journey but also serve as a valuable resource for understanding early 19th-century American history and the country's westward expansion.

This book chronicles the inspiring life of a pioneering female physician who, in the early 20th century, left her comfortable city life to practice medicine in the harsh, unforgiving environment of the Colorado Rockies. Facing the challenges of isolation, gender bias, and limited medical resources, she earned the trust and respect of the rugged community through her tireless dedication, compassion, and medical skill. Her story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of an extraordinary woman who overcame societal constraints and personal adversities to serve the needs of her rural patients.

"The Pioneers" is a historical novel that takes place in the late 18th century in a fictional town in New York. The story follows the life of a retired judge and his daughter who have moved to this frontier town from New York City. The narrative explores the conflict between the settlers' desire to exploit and control nature for their own benefit and the need to respect and preserve it. The novel also delves into the clash between the native Americans and the settlers, and the struggle for coexistence and understanding.

"North Star Country" explores the rich tapestry of the American Midwest through a blend of history, folklore, and personal narrative, focusing particularly on Minnesota. The book delves into the lives of the region's diverse inhabitants, including Native Americans, fur traders, and immigrants, weaving their stories into a broader examination of the social and economic forces that have shaped the Midwest. Through vivid storytelling and lyrical prose, the narrative captures the spirit and struggles of the people who have called this part of America their home, reflecting on themes of community, hardship, and resilience.

"Little Heathens" is a memoir of Mildred Armstrong Kalish's childhood on an Iowa farm during the Great Depression. Kalish recounts the daily struggles and joys of life on the farm, from making do with limited resources to finding creative ways to entertain themselves. Through her vivid descriptions and humorous anecdotes, Kalish paints a picture of a resilient and close-knit community that persevered through tough times with a spirit of determination and optimism.

This book is a firsthand account written by a colonial American woman who was captured by Native Americans during King Philip's War in 1675. The narrative details her experiences over the eleven weeks of her captivity, describing the hardships she faced, her observations of Native American life, her struggles with her captors, and her reflections on her faith. Throughout her ordeal, she relies on her religious beliefs to find meaning and solace, ultimately being ransomed back to her English community. The work is one of the earliest and most famous captivity narratives, and it offers a complex and sometimes conflicting perspective on the relationship between early American settlers and Native Americans.

This book is a firsthand account of the first U.S. government-sponsored passage through the Grand Canyon. The author, a one-armed Civil War veteran, and his team of nine men risked their lives to accomplish this feat in 1869. They faced dangerous rapids, food shortages, and potential attacks from Native American tribes. The narrative provides detailed descriptions of the geography, geology, and Native American inhabitants of the region, offering invaluable insights into the uncharted territory of the American West.

"Life in the Far West" is a vivid account of the early American frontier, highlighting the lives of trappers and traders in the Rocky Mountains. The narrative, based on the author's own experiences, provides detailed descriptions of the rugged lifestyle, the diverse characters encountered, and the often dangerous and violent events that occurred. It also offers an insightful look into the interactions between the settlers and the native tribes, making it a valuable historical resource.

"Journal of the Voyage to the Pacific" is a travelogue that documents the author's journey from Great Slave Lake in Northwest Territories, Canada, to the Pacific Ocean. The author, an explorer, details the challenges and experiences he encountered during the first recorded transcontinental crossing of North America north of Mexico. The book provides an insightful view into the landscapes, indigenous cultures, and natural history of the late 18th century North American continent.

"Letters of a Woman Homesteader" is a collection of spirited and insightful letters written by a young widow who leaves Denver in 1909 to settle in the Wyoming frontier. Through her correspondence, she shares her experiences and adventures as she homesteads alone with her daughter, offering a vivid portrayal of the challenges and joys of rural life. Her letters reveal not only the hardships faced by homesteaders but also the moments of community, friendship, and personal growth, providing a unique female perspective on a predominantly male-driven endeavor.

The book explores the concept of the frontier throughout American history, arguing that it has been a central myth that has shaped the nation's ideologies and policies, from its inception to the present day. The author traces this myth from the country's founding, through westward expansion, to the current political climate and the contentious issue of the border wall. The book suggests that the frontier has served as a symbol of freedom and opportunity, but also of conflict and exclusion, reflecting the country's struggle with its own identity and values.