The Life of Buffalo Bill · Theme
Frontier Expansion and Manifest Destiny
How The Life of Buffalo Bill develops Frontier Expansion and Manifest Destiny.
The narrative chronicles the westward expansion of the United States, depicting the movement of emigrant trains, the building of railroads, and the settlement of the plains, framing this as a natural and heroic endeavor.
Where it surfaces
- Introductory
Cody's life story is presented as a valuable record of Western frontier history, embodying the expansion of the United States into the West.
- The Life of Buffalo Bill
Cody's life embodies the spirit of westward expansion, from his family's move to Kansas to his role as a scout and buffalo hunter.
- Childhood
The Cody family's move from Iowa to unsettled Kansas embodies the westward expansion and the pursuit of new opportunities on the frontier.
- Early Influences
The valley filled with emigrant wagons bound for Utah and California illustrates the massive westward movement and the spirit of Manifest Destiny.
- Youthful Experiences
The movement of troops and freight trains westward, as well as the conflict with Native Americans, illustrates the expansionist drive of the era.
- Scouting
The military campaign pushes into Native American territory, asserting U.S. control over the Plains.
- Hunting Expedition
The hunting expedition and the presence of settlers like the Clifford brothers illustrate the encroachment of white settlers and hunters into buffalo territory.