Continental Reckoning: The American West in the Age of Expansion.

"Continental Reckoning: The American West in the Age of Expansion" by Elliott West is a comprehensive exploration of the American West and its significance in American history. Divided into three parts, the book examines the emergence of the West, its role in post-Civil War America, and how it contributed to the nation's economy and global ascendancy. West argues that Kansas, in particular, represents the West's continental disharmony and its conflicts over property. The book provides a nuanced portrayal of the West across various fields and challenges the mythologies surrounding it. "The Jayhawk: The Story of the University of Kansas's Beloved Mascot" by Rebecca Ozier Schulte delves into the history of the Jayhawk, a symbol of independence and athletic dominance associated with the University of Kansas. The book traces the origins of the term "Jayhawker" during the California gold rush and its subsequent association with Kansas during the Civil War. It explores the evolution of the Jayhawk as a visual symbol, college yell, and mascot, highlighting its enduring significance in the university's traditions. [Extracted from the article]