Teaching Historical Research Using Primary Sources:
Documents from the Expanding American West

Introduction

America was rapidly expanding throughout the 19th century. Settlers traveled by covered wagon to Oregon, California, Oklahoma, and everywhere in between. The lesson plans here are designed to provide specific looks into several different episodes during this expansion. The exercises rely on primary sources contained in the Western Historical Manuscripts Collection (WHMC) at Ellis Library, in Columbia Missouri. The WHMC is a joint collection of the State Historical Society of Missouri and the University of Missouri. The original documents may be viewed in WHMC's reading room on the university campus in Columbia, or may be borrowed through intercampus loan at any of the other three UM campuses in Kansas City, Rolla, or St. Louis.

Each lesson is based on a different type of primary source relating to the theme of westward expansion in 19th century America. The sources cover different parts of the theme -- newspaper advertisements of goods needed for the trip west; diary excerpts of the journey west on a wagon train; and a letter discussing settling and attempting to create a government once the wagon train arrived at its destination.

The teacher guide for each lesson contains a description of the document, the Missouri Show-Me Standards related to the document, discussion questions, and possible activities for students. The exercises are designed to pique the interest of students, while showing them the value and diversity of primary sources. The lessons are designed to be used in class, to stimulate discussion. Because some questions might not have one "right" answer, participation is most important.

Simply click on the plans below for access.