Over the course of three lessons students will analyze primary source documents that present examples of both the romanticization and the cruel realities of American westward migration during the 1800s. Students will read and analyze different types of documents not only to comprehend the language of the text but also to infer the more subtle meanings. Students will use textual evidence to draw conclusions and present arguments as directed in each lesson. Finally, students will participate in a mock debate drawing on the primary sources.

The Roadmap
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
