America’s vision of westward expansion is a prominent feature of the nineteenth century, but its roots run much deeper and its branches spread across the continent. This seminar will examine visions of the west from the era of European exploration, the nineteenth-century policies and laws that sought to implement that vision, and the reality of that vision as it played out primarily in Iowa and Minnesota.

This program will be conducted as a discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with Professor Otto facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions.  Teachers will receive a Letter of Attendance at the conclusion of the seminar.