For the tens of thousands of women who moved to the American West in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the challenges of the frontier mixed with, social and economic opportunities denied them back home. Many opted to begin a new life outside the bounds of conventual society itself. From property rights to the right to vote, the newfound power they wielded helped transform America from coast to coast.

Professor Virginia Scharff, Women of the West Chair at the Autry Museum, moderates this discussion featuring Anthea Hartig, who helps tell America’s story as Director of the Smithsonian National Museum American History and Susan Anderson, head of programming at the California Historical Society and author of an upcoming book tracing the African American experience in the West.