The Rockies
Majestic, inspiring, and seductive, the Rocky Mountains dominate the American mid-western landscape. These mountain ranges are America's greatest natural wonder and house many of the nation's national parks, including the first designated national park, and most famous, Yellowstone. The Rockies are home to a vast array of wildlife and provide a temporary refuge to millions of tourists who seek to hike its peaks, ski its slopes or ride its rivers. But the Rockies can be as dangerous as they are beautiful. Sudden changes in weather and conditions can quickly turn a pleasure excursion into a struggle for survival. The Rockies would be useful for classes on American History, American Culture, Natural History, Ecology, and Geography. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Striking It Rich
The Rockies are a source of precious metals from gold to copper. This episode examines the men who came to seek their fortunes in the mountains, from gold prospectors to an immigrant beer brewer named Adolph Coors.
Students will examine the history and cultural impact of America's greatest mountain ranges. They will explore the terrain of the ranges as well as the role of the Rocky Mountains in American history and American culture.
The Rockies fulfills the following National Standards for History for grades 5-12: Chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical analysis and interpretation, historical research capabilities, historical issues-analysis and decision-making for Eras 1—10.
Discussion Questions
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For centuries, fortune hunters have come to the Rocky Mountains to strike it rich. Why do the mountains attract fortune hunters? What is the lure of these mountains?
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The 1849 California gold rush was one of the most significant events of the 19th century. Discuss how this event changed the course of American history and culture.
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Gold is only a metal that does not nourish, give shelter or protection. Why then is this metal so valuable? Why are currencies based on gold?
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What was the
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Discuss the role of William Byers in the growth and development of Denver, Colorado.
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Denver, Colorado is called the
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Horace Tabor, Denver's richest citizen in the 19th century, ran for the U.S. Senate. How did Tabor's personal life destroy his chances for a senate seat?
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Horace Tabor rose to riches and fell to poverty. How did he lose his fortune?
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How did Prussian immigrant Adolph Coors make his fortune?
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The Temperance Movement and Prohibition almost put Coors brewery out of business. How did Coors survive when Colorado was a dry state?
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Discuss the role of prejudice and nativism in the Temperance Movement.
Extended Activities
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Using the medium of your choice (clay, plaster, etc.) create a relief map of the Rocky Mountains. You may choice to highlight the mountains of a specific area.
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Search the Internet to find out about the economics of the Rocky Mountains. What industries do the mountains support? What are the environmental concerns surrounding these industries? Create a report using your findings.
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