Ep 2. Empire Upon the Trails

Ken Burns' The West season 1 episode 2 is titled "Empire Upon the Trails." In this episode, viewers will be taken on a journey through the expansion of the United States during the mid-1800s. With the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition, the United States began to look westward, and this episode examines the impact of Manifest Destiny on the nation's growth.

Viewers will learn about the Oregon Trail, which became the main route for pioneers heading west. The episode also explores the California Gold Rush and its impact on both the United States and the indigenous communities of the West.

Throughout "Empire Upon the Trails," viewers will hear from historians, authors, and descendants of pioneers who traveled the trails west. Additionally, the episode features readings from journals and letters written by those who experienced the westward expansion firsthand.

One of the key themes of this episode is the tension between the United States and Mexico over the territory of Texas. Viewers will learn about the Texas Revolution, which resulted in the independent Republic of Texas being formed. This event set the stage for the Mexican-American War, which further expanded the United States' reach into the western region of North America.

The episode also touches on the genocide of Native American communities during this period. Viewers will hear from indigenous scholars and community members about the devastating impact of westward expansion on their cultures and livelihoods.

Ken Burns' signature style of combining historical images and footage with expert commentary creates an immersive experience for viewers of "Empire Upon the Trails." Through this episode, viewers will gain a better understanding of the complex history of the United States' westward expansion and its impact on both the nation and the people who lived in the West.