The American Military Frontiers: The United States Army in the West, 1783-1900

Histories of the American Frontier Series

by Robert Wooster

Winner of the 2010 Robert M. Utley Award from the Western History Association As the fledgling nation looked west to the land beyond the Appalachian Mountains, it turned to the army to advance and defend its national interests. Clashing with Spain, Britain, France, Mexico, the Confederacy, and Indians in this pursuit of expansion, the army's failures and successes alternately delayed and hastened western migration. Roads, river improvements, and railroads, often constructed or facilitated by the army, further solidified the nation's presence as it reached the Pacific Ocean and expanded north and south to the borders of Canada and Mexico. Western military experiences thus illustrate the dual role played by the United States Army in insuring national security and fostering national development. Robert Wooster's study examines the fundamental importance of military affairs to social, economic, and political life throughout the borderlands and western frontiers. Integrating the work of other military historians as well as tapping into a broad array of primary materials, Wooster offers a multifaceted narrative that will shape our understanding of the frontier military experience, its relationship with broader concerns of national politics, and its connection to major themes and events in American history.

Genres: Military Fiction, History, American History

384 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2009

Reviews

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

The United States Army in the West was one of the main state building arms of the federal government, building roads, bridges and forts in it's fights against hostile Native American tribes.

Why I started this book: Another professional reading title in audio format. I love listening to nonfiction... it's like going back to college without having a paper or test at the end of a great lecture.

Why I finished it: This was a great history and it was also depressing. No winners, as Congress was repeatedly slashing budgets, Army regulars were repeatedly massacring Native America villages, Native Americans repeatedly went to war against each other just as much as they went against the US Army. Not to mention all the settlers who repeatedly ignored and violated treaties. Not pretty for anyone.

[Macy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little dry, but a solid play-by-play of the military role in the history of westward expansion in the US.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this study is written by and for the military historian, it does represent all of the peoples involved. From the hotly contested establishment of a standing army, through the initial learning curves of the early years, to establishing and defending the westward expansion. As what constituted the western territories moved on, so did the involvement of central government, development of the standing army, state militias, greed, and the multiplicity of indigenous tribes. Well documented sources provide the information both lauding and condemning various leaders of the government, army, and various tribes. I have no claim to being a military historian, that was my husband, and regarding our Rev War. I did learn much from this forthright and easily understandable presentation. There are so many notable persons and places referenced here, that we should consider this the backstory of their involvement impacting us. This is not a light read, but anyone interested in this period of our history need not approach it as if written solely for military aggrandizement. It is not.
As usual, Narrator Jack performs the audio interpretation of what might have been a somewhat dry piece with the talent and professionalism which enhances the listener's appreciation of the material presented.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this audio book in exchange for a honest and unbiased review about it. This audio book is very informative and interesting, going into details of the Military of the past, all the way back to the Indians. It is always interesting to me to hear about the old west times. Back then, it was the Army that had to build the roads, railroads and bridges to get from here to there (especially to take the Military places). This book discusses the successes and the failures of past trials and what we learned from them. The Army even re-routed rivers. It even goes into the politics of the Military. Definitely a fascinating read!

The author, Robert Wooster did a really good job with delivering history and fact s to us all while keeping it interesting enough not to lose us. The narrator, Jack Chekijian did a good job delivering this book with his flawless voice and well spoken words. Very easy on the ears. Good job guys!

[Nannette · Rating 5 out of 5]

The American Military Frontiers was a fascinating audiobook. It traces the history of the US Army back to the very beginnings of our nation. It contains a wealth of information. I listened to it in smaller increments than I usually do to help process all the information. I learned quite a bit and am interested in learning more on several sections covered. One example is the Civil War on the frontier. The production values were very good. The volume was steady and there were no extraneous noises. Mr. Chekijian has a pleasant voice. He spoke clearly and I had no difficulty understanding what he was saying. I would recommend The American Military Frontiers for anyone who enjoys American history. Although it may seem more academic, I found it to be very approachable without having an advanced education.
"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review."

[Deedra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the Audible version.I found this book to be extremely interesting.It encompasses a little over 100 years of history dealing with Native American tribes and how they were dealt with by American Military heading west.Jack Chekijian narrates this one and does a fine job.If you like history as it was,not slanted in favor of the 'heroes' you should give this a try.
I was gifted a copy of this book thru Audioblast for an honest review

[Erwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The military industrial complex started with the ethnic cleansing of the american indians... Interesting.