Turner's Thesis

Turner’s Thesis, also known as the Frontier Thesis, posits that the American character and society were fundamentally shaped by the experience of frontier settlement. He argued that the availability of frontier land fostered qualities like independence, innovation, and resilience. As the frontier moved westward and eventually closed in the early 20th century, Turner believed this had profound implications for American development, influencing democracy and individualism. Essentially, the frontier served as a safety valve and catalyst for American unique identity and societal progress.