Presents an overview of Turner's thesis that the migration westward produced a unique democratic tradition and a distinctive American character. Discusses Richard Hofstadter's and Ray Allen Bellington's reactions to this thesis. Notes the concepts of Bellington in support of Turner' thesis and those concepts of Hofstadter that oppose Turner's…

Presents background information on the Homestead Act of 1862 and includes a set of suggested teaching activities to be used in conjunction with replicas of original documents. The Homestead Act provided free land to settlers and was instrumental in settling the west. Includes replicas of an application and certificate. (MJP)

This curriculum guide consists of materials for high school vocational agriculture instructors to use in teaching a course in the law and agriculture. Addressed in the individual units of the guide are the following topics: the purpose of the law in our society, the judicial system, contract law, torts, ownership of land, and water rights. Each…

Investigates the situations surrounding, and events involved in, the United States's massive western land acquisition from Mexico in 1845 and 1848. Presents a challenging, thorough, and insightful lesson plan that includes numerous background materials, learning activities, maps, and handouts. (MJP)

Develops a lesson in which students analyze an 1894 petition to the federal government from Moqui women, asking that their matrilineal system of land use not be disturbed. Focuses on cultural differences between perceptions of land ownership. Highlights the Moqui's adjustment to southwestern aridity and John Wesley Powell's efforts to influence…

American history is looked at through the eyes of Native Americans. Chapter 1 covers legends and theories concerning the origins of the American Indians, the arrival of Columbus and the European stereotype of the American Indian, the early relationships between the Indians and Europeans, and the disputes over land. Chapter 2 discusses the United…