After the Civil War, settlers flooded the West. Miners sought gold and silver. Railroad builders spanned the continent with rail lines. Ranchers raised great herds of cattle. Farmers changed grasslands into fields of wheat and corn. As these westerners gained political influence, they urged government leaders to address their needs and concerns.

Native Americans, meanwhile, were driven from their homelands. The Indians struggled to keep their way of life. In the end, however, they were defeated. On reservations, they were forced to learn new ways. Native Americans suffered greatly from the changes that swept the West.

Additional Activities

• "Why Study History?" Activity: Have students use the Internet to explore how cowboys influenced our culture. (See Teacher's Edition, page 514.)
  
  
• Check out the Student Internet Activities, which focus on the present-day life of Native Americans and William Jennings Bryan.
  
  

Section 1: The Plains Indians

Section 2: Miners and Railroaders

Section 3: Ranchers and Cowhands

Section 4: A Way of Life Ends

Section 5: The Farmers