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The West
The People
Season 1996
Episode 1
The West begins as the whole world to the people who live there. It becomes a New World when Europeans arrive, a world shaken by incompatible visions. And almost three centuries later, when Lewis and Clark venture west to find a Northwest Passage, this world becomes the testing-ground for a young nation's continent-spanning dream.
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1:02:58
As the 20th century neared, Americans celebrated with the World Columbian Exposition.
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58:38
As settlers race to claim tribal lands, Native Americans take up the Ghost Dance.
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1:24:53
Newcomers arrive by the millions, bringing a spirit of conformity to the West.
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1:25:06
The federal government tightens its grip on the West.
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1:24:33
A triumph of the human spirit, the transcontinental railroad opens a new era in the West.
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1:24:47
Civil war comes early to the West.
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1:24:49
The Gold Rush brings the whole world to the West.
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1:24:31
Americans head west along many pathways.