The Life of Buffalo Bill · Question
How does The Life of Buffalo Bill develop the theme of The American West as a Land of Opportunity?
Answer
The Life of Buffalo Bill by William F. Cody develops The American West as a Land of Opportunity across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The West is depicted as a place of economic promise, where a boy can rise from humble beginnings to wealth and fame through hard work, hunting contracts, cattle ranching, and show business.
Cody sees the high wages ($40 per month in gold) and the chance to work as an extra hand as a great opportunity, despite the risks. The freighting business offers a path to independence and adventure.
Cody and Rose's attempt to found a town and become millionaires illustrates the speculative boom-and-bust cycle of frontier enterprise.
Cody secures a lucrative contract as a buffalo hunter, demonstrating the economic opportunities available in the West.
Evidence in the book
- In Business
Cody sees the high wages ($40 per month in gold) and the chance to work as an extra hand as a great opportunity, despite the risks. The freighting business offers a path to independence and adventure.
- A Millionaire
Cody and Rose's attempt to found a town and become millionaires illustrates the speculative boom-and-bust cycle of frontier enterprise.
- XIV: Earning a Title
Cody secures a lucrative contract as a buffalo hunter, demonstrating the economic opportunities available in the West.
- An Exciting Chase
The theft and resale of government stock highlight the economic opportunism and lawlessness that characterized frontier life.
- Sightseeing
Cody's journey East and his reception by wealthy and influential people illustrate how his Western exploits opened doors in Eastern society.
- Honors
Cody's election to the legislature and his role as a celebrated guide for wealthy hunters illustrate the West as a place for personal advancement and fame.
- An Actor
The success of the play demonstrates how the myth of the West could be commodified for national audiences.
- Conclusion
Buffalo Bill's cattle ranching and show business ventures exemplify the economic opportunities available in the West.
