In this lesson, students learn about Horatio Nelson Jackson, the first man to drive across America. (He did it to win a bet!) Jackson’s determination in the face of obstacles embodies the American character, and the obsession at that time with cars and travel demonstrates some crucial aspects of the American mindset. In this lesson, students will analyze both, with particular attention to those who are left out of the concept of the Great American Road Trip. As an optional follow-up activity, students are invited to learn more about pioneers of color in the automobile industry and the role of Native American pathways in shaping the nation’s highway system.

Essential Question:

How are cars, and America’s roadways, tied to ideas of the American Character and the American Dream?

Supporting Questions:

• What are some aspects of the American Character?
• What are some aspects of the American Dream?
• For people whose travel experiences were limited to wagons, railroads, and on-foot experiences, what was attractive about traveling by car? Given these qualities of car travel, what did the car represent for people in the economic, gender, or racial groups who had the opportunity to use it?

Historical Thinking Skills:

• Developing an Argument
• Interpreting Cause and Effect