Beginning in the 1840s, settlers spurred on by enthusiastic reports of open land and the Homestead Act began pouring into the trans-Mississippi West. They established millions of farms and created thriving railroad, ranching and mining industries. However, these achievements came at the expense of the hundreds of thousands of Native Americans who resisted for a time, but eventually succumbed to the Army and life on reservations. This presentation examines the ideas, policies and events that shaped the conquest of the West. Professor Edward O’Donnell will also look at the ways in which our image of the West shaped, and continues to shape, the American imagination and self-image. Program provided by Curiosity U. Provided by the CAST Senior Center, our Virtual Programs provide an endless variety of interesting subjects. Our Virtual Programs take us across the country, experiencing and learning about places and people which we wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to experience. Scheduled every Tuesday afternoon, unless noted, at 1pm at the CAST Senior Center, our Virtual Programs are free and open to the public. There are no membership dues and everyone is welcome to attend. Programming is provided by CuriousityU.com and other online providers. Check out our virtual program schedule every month and join us! We look forward to seeing you!