The Best of the Real West

Watch The Best of the Real West

  • 1992
  • 1 Season

The Best of the Real West is a TV show that takes viewers on a journey through the Old West, exploring the events and personalities that shaped this period of American history. Produced by History, the show features dramatic reenactments, expert commentary, and archival footage to bring the stories of the Real West to life.

From legendary figures like Billy the Kid and Calamity Jane to lesser-known true tales of frontier life, The Best of the Real West covers a wide range of topics in each episode. The show delves into the conflicts between Native Americans and settlers, the skirmishes between rival cowboys, and the lawlessness that characterized many towns in the West.

Each episode is framed around a central theme, such as outlaws, gunfighters, or lawmen, and explores these topics in-depth through a mix of historical analysis and action-packed reenactments. The show highlights the bravery and courage of the people who lived in the West, as well as the tough conditions they faced on a daily basis.

One of the strengths of The Best of the Real West is its attention to detail. The show goes beyond the tropes and clichés that often inhabit stories about the West, presenting a nuanced and realistic view of the period. By drawing from primary sources and consulting with historical experts, the producers have created a show that is both informative and engaging.

In addition to the high-quality production values and attention to historical accuracy, The Best of the Real West is notable for its wide appeal. While the show will undoubtedly appeal to history buffs and fans of Westerns, it also has something to offer to viewers who may not be familiar with this period of American history. The show's compelling stories and charismatic reenactors make it an accessible and entertaining watch for audiences of all ages.

In terms of its format, The Best of the Real West is fairly standard for a history program. Each episode starts with an introduction to the theme of the episode, followed by a brief overview of the historical context. From there, the show moves into a mix of reenactments and expert commentary, all centered around the central theme.

The reenactments themselves are impressive, featuring high-quality production values and talented actors. The show makes use of a variety of settings, from dusty frontier towns to the rugged foothills of the Rocky Mountains, to create a realistic and immersive world for viewers.

Interspersed with the reenactments are interviews with historians and other experts, who provide context and analysis for the events being depicted. These interviews are informative without feeling pedantic, and help to ground the show's stories in a larger historical context.

Ultimately, The Best of the Real West is a compelling and well-crafted exploration of the history of the American West. Through its mix of dramatic reenactments and expert analysis, the show brings to life the stories of the people who lived in this place and time, and sheds light on the events and conflicts that shaped this important period of American history. Whether you're a history buff or a fan of action-packed dramas, The Best of the Real West is definitely worth checking out.

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Seasons
The Battle of the Alamo
4. The Battle of the Alamo
 
With Texan independence hanging in the balance, a mixed army of white Americans and Tejanos stave off some 5,000 advancing Mexican soldiers led by Gen. General Antonio López de Santa Anna, defending the Alamo Mission for 13 agonizing days.
The Texas Rangers
3. The Texas Rangers
 
Learn the fascinating history of the Texas Rangers, an elite law enforcement agency created by "Father of Texas" Stephen F. Austin in 1823 to protect early settlers from harm. Legend has it that a ranger could "ride like a Mexican, trail like an Indian, shoot like a Tennessean and fight like the very devil."
Wild, Wild Women
2. Wild, Wild Women
 
The Old West was a place where rough-and-tumble men -- and unconventionally "wild" women -- could thrive, a uniquely fertile breeding ground for captivating female characters such as Annie Oakley, Calamity Jane and Belle Star.
Sitting Bull
1. Sitting Bull
 
In the wake of Chief Sitting Bull's vivid premonition that predicted the downfall of U.S. soldiers, thousands of Native Americans launch an assault against Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his men at Little Big Horn, effectively annihilating the U.S. 7th Cavalry
Description
  • Premiere Date
    December 31, 1992