Presents a look at daily life in pioneer America during the 1850s by following a family that emigrates from Sweden to Minnesota.

"Americans' large-scale movement west during the 1800s stemmed from several events. The discovery of gold in California, the Mormon migration west, the transcontinental railroad, and the search for farmland propelled many people in the East across the continent. This valuable volume highlights the major causes and effects of the push westward, highlighting important topics such as Native American displacement and the construction of the Erie Canal....

Recounts the story of the African American soldiers known as Buffalo Soldiers, who fought against American Indians and protected the western frontier of the United States in the latter half of the 1800s.

Captioned illustrations highlight important events ranging from the Louisiana Purchase to the time when the Oregon territory became American land.