The Real Wild West: Myths vs. Reality on the American Frontier

The “Wild West” we imagine — gunslingers, lone cowboys, rugged freedom, and untamed land — is less a historical reality than a story America learned to tell about itself.

Much of what we think we know about the American frontier comes not from the 19th century West itself, but from the Western genre — a powerful tradition of entertainment that shaped national memory. From Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show to Hollywood films, the frontier was transformed into a dramatic myth: a stage for heroism, conquest, and destiny.

But myths have consequences. They don’t just entertain — they shape identity, politics, and how nations justify expansion.

Join us for a revealing seminar that separates frontier legend from frontier reality. We’ll explore how the myth of the West was created, why it became so culturally dominant, and how even academic history helped reinforce it — especially through Frederick Jackson Turner’s famous “Frontier Thesis,” which argued that the frontier forged American democracy, individualism, and national character.

We’ll then challenge Turner’s vision by looking at a haunting and often overlooked story: Ishi, the last survivor of the Yahi people, described at the time as the “last wild man.”

This isn’t the Wild West of movies. It’s the Wild West as history.

🎓 Presented by Dr. Scott Craig, an award-winning historian and university lecturer with over 15 years of teaching experience, this one-hour seminar is perfect for curious adults who enjoy big ideas, powerful stories, and lifelong learning.

✅ What to Expect

• A welcoming, conversational environment — no prior knowledge required
• A myth-busting look at Buffalo Bill, Hollywood, and the Western genre
• Clear explanation of Turner’s Frontier Thesis — and why it matters
• The powerful true story of Ishi and what it reveals about the frontier
• A chance to meet like-minded lifelong learners and join the discussion

🗓️ Date & Time: Friday, 27 March | 12:00-1:00pm
📍 Location: Chermside Library, 375 Hamilton Road, Chermside QLD
🎟️ Tickets: FREE – Spaces are limited, so reserve your seat now

✨ Be part of Platform Lifelong Learning — Brisbane’s home for enriching community seminars. Come challenge the myths you’ve inherited and discover the real history behind America’s most enduring legend.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Chermside Library, 375 Hamilton Road, Chermside, Australia

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