Naked Science Season 5 Episode 24 How the West Was Made
- July 16, 2009
How the West Was Made is the 24th episode of the fifth season of Naked Science. The show delves into history to explore how the American West was shaped, from its wild and untamed landscape to the booming metropolis cities that exist today.
The episode begins by looking at the geology of the West, which played a significant role in the region's development. The Rocky Mountains, for example, were formed over millions of years by tectonic shifts and volcanic activity. The show explains how the mountains created a rain shadow effect, where moisture from the Pacific Ocean was blocked, leading to the creation of arid plains and deserts like the Mojave and Sonoran.
The next segment focuses on the impact of early European explorers, who came looking for gold and other resources. This led to the displacement of Native American populations, who had lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years. The episode explores the history and culture of various tribes, including the Apache, Navajo, and Sioux, shedding light on their way of life and spirituality.
Moving on to the 19th century, the show examines the era of westward expansion, spurred by the Homestead Acts of 1862 and 1866. These acts allowed settlers to claim land in the West for a nominal fee, which encouraged thousands of people to migrate from the East Coast. The episode highlights the challenges faced by pioneers, including harsh weather, crop failures, and conflicts with indigenous peoples.
The episode then looks at the construction of railroads, which played an instrumental role in the development of the West. The Transcontinental Railroad, completed in 1869, allowed for faster transportation of goods and people across the country. The show examines the complex engineering challenges involved in constructing a railroad through treacherous terrain, such as the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Later segments focus on the mining and cattle industries, which boomed in the late 1800s. The discovery of gold and silver in California, Colorado, and Nevada led to a rush of miners, who created sprawling mining towns. The episode also examines the role of cowboys and ranchers, who played a vital role in supplying beef to growing cities back East.
Finally, the episode examines the growth of cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix, which sprang up as a result of the West's booms and allowed for the development of modern-day amenities like electricity and plumbing. The show examines the contributions of inventors and entrepreneurs, showcasing figures like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, who played instrumental roles in shaping the West's technological advancements.
Overall, How the West Was Made is a fascinating look at the history of the American West, covering everything from geology to culture to industry. It sheds light on the many challenges and triumphs that made the West the vibrant and diverse region that it is today.
