Learn about the challenges faced by pioneers as they traveled west. The Bozeman Trail was a shortcut to the newly discovered gold fields of Montana Territory. Cutting through the heart of Indian country, it provoked a clash of cultures that exploded into warfare, destruction and tragedy. In the accompanying Lesson Plans for Grades 3-5 and 6-8 (found in the Support Materials), students will learn it was a singular road that changed this part of the American West forever.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Students will analyze and evaluate how physical changes influenced historical events. 
• Students will describe how the environment influences people and how people adjust to and/or change the environment in order to survive. Students will practice speaking and listening skills. 
• Students will use independent and whole class strategies to describe and interpret information about the Bozeman Trail. 
• Students will write a short historical fiction narrative about travel on the Bozeman Trail.

View the entire documentary at Bozeman Trail, A Rush to Montana’s Gold