The Story of the Oregon Trail

Now, for the first time on video, the complete story of the hardy pioneers who changed the course of American history. Great care was taken to ensure historical accuracy. Every rut you'll see is the actual Oregon Trail; every still image is from the Trail's glory years. The producers spent three years just doing research--sifting through archives, reading old diaries--because they wanted it to be done right.Also, interspersed throughout the film are fascinating comments from the Trail's most renowned historians--Merrill Mattes, William Hill, Larry Jones and Charlie Martin Sr. Woven into the film are hundreds of rare paintings, photos and sketches from the mid-1800s. The filmmakers relentlessly searched archives from coast to coast to compile an incredible collection of the Trail's most fascinating historic images. Every facet of the great western journey is covered:

  • Lewis and Clark
  • Reasons behind the journey
  • Political overtones
  • Preparations for the trek
  • Daily life on the Trail
  • Death and Hardship
  • Encounters with Native American tribes
Questions to think about and address while writing your reflections following the viewing of the film:
  • Which images really stuck out in your mind?
  • Do you think you could have managed this journey?
  • Have your thoughts about the Pioneers and/or Natives changed? How?
Students' Blog:
Alex Dunder-Mifflin