How the West Was Won is a classic American Western television series that aired from 1976 to 1979. It is based on the 1962 movie of the same name, which was produced by MGM. The series follows the story of the Macahan family as they trek westward from Virginia to California during the 1860s. This journey is fraught with danger, as the family must navigate through hostile territory, deal with Indian attacks, and struggle to find food and water along the way.

The show's main characters are Zeb Macahan, his nephew, Luke, and his niece, Laura. Zeb is a veteran of the Civil War who now works as a scout for the U.S. Army. Luke is a young man who is eager to prove himself as a man, while Laura is a young woman who is trying to find her place in the world. The three of them, along with a handful of other characters, make up the core of the show.

What makes How the West Was Won stand out from other Western shows is its commitment to historical accuracy. The show's writers went to great lengths to research the time period and the events that took place during the westward expansion. This attention to detail is evident in the show's depiction of the hardships that pioneers faced, as well as in the way that it portrays the interactions between white settlers and Native Americans.

One of the show's most notable storylines involves the Macahan family's encounter with the Sioux Indian tribe. The Sioux are initially portrayed as a hostile and violent people, but as the family spends more time with them, they begin to see them in a different light. This storyline is notable for its nuanced portrayal of Native American culture, which was rare for its time.

Another aspect of the show that sets it apart from other Westerns is its focus on women's roles in the westward expansion. Laura Macahan, in particular, is a strong and independent character who is not content to simply be a wife and mother. She is shown taking on traditionally male roles, such as hunting and scouting, and is portrayed as being just as capable as the men around her.

The show's commitment to historical accuracy is also evident in its depiction of the landscape of the American West. The show was filmed on location in various parts of the country, including Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. The scenery is breathtaking, and the show's cinematography captures the vastness and beauty of the American West.

Despite its commitment to historical accuracy, How the West Was Won is not without its flaws. The show's pacing can be slow at times, and some of the episodes feel repetitive. Additionally, the show's portrayal of Native Americans, while nuanced for its time, can still be seen as problematic by modern standards.

How the West Was Won is a classic American Western that is worth watching for its historical accuracy and nuanced portrayal of the westward expansion. It is a show that is both entertaining and educational, and its focus on women's roles and Native American culture make it a standout in the genre. While it may not be perfect, it is a show that has stood the test of time and is still enjoyable to watch today.