Westward empire : $b or, the great drama of human progress

"Westward Empire; or, the Great Drama of Human Progress" by E.L. Magoon is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book explores the progression of civilization through a lens that emphasizes the movement of humanity toward the West, presenting it as a central theme in the narrative of human development. It focuses on significant historical epochs and figures, illustrating how various elements—art, science, literature, and philosophy—have contributed to progress. At the start of the text, Magoon sets the stage for his examination of civilization by asserting that history has consistently moved westward. He introduces the idea that divine providence shapes human progress and connects past, present, and future civilizations as part of a grand drama. The opening discusses the complexities of civilization's evolution, touching on the geographical, cultural, and historical dynamics that influence this progress. Magoon also outlines the structure of the work, hinting at detailed discussions on various historical periods and figures that will follow, invoking a sense of anticipation for a thorough exploration of humanity's westward journey through time.