Question

What are some differences between the real west and the mythic west of popular culture

Answer 1

The real west was difficult, dirty, rough and dangerous. The towns were populated by many workers in search of silver and gold. In addition to that, cases of diseases outbreak were also experienced where kids died of measles, chickenpox and accidents. The houses were made out of dirt, with dirt floors. Everything was unpleasant and life was very difficult. There was no presence of running water so bathing wasn't much of an option and laundry took more than a day to be completed. In general life in the real West was difficult and nothing like what it was on the movies. The mythic west is open fields, ranches and cowboys riding around on their horses.

Answer 2

One mythic west difference would be that settlers were always clashing with the Indians. I don't know if that would be new or not on this list, but it's a start! As for the last part, I think that the propaganda against the Indians accounted for so much of what we now think was constant battles and heroic actions of Western Settlers. I hope that helps, thank you for asking!