Where to watch The American West (2016)

Story

Following the Civil War, the United States evolves into a land of opportunity between 1865 and 1890, but this transformation unfolds through violence and conflict. The series interweaves the personal struggles of legendary figures including Jesse James, who turns to robbery to support his family; Billy the Kid, a young outlaw seeking revenge; Wyatt Earp, a lawman in Dodge City and later Tombstone; and Native American leaders Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull, who fight to protect their lands from encroaching settlers and the military. Each episode traces how these iconic figures navigate a brutal frontier shaped by railroad expansion, gold rushes, and the government's westward ambitions.

Why watch

• Explores little-known personal stories of famous Western figures like Jesse James and Crazy Horse
• Combines dramatic re-enactments with expert historical commentary and analysis
• Examines the violent transformation of America from 1865 to 1890 through multiple interconnected narratives

Good for: History enthusiasts and viewers interested in the American frontier will appreciate this series, though its TV-14 rating indicates it contains violence and mature themes unsuitable for young children.

About the series

Directed by John Ealer, this eight-episode docudrama was executive produced by Robert Redford, Stephen David and Laura Michalchyshyn through Sundance Productions. The series aired on AMC from June 11 to July 30, 2016. It features Derek Chariton as Billy the Kid, David H. Stevens as Jesse James, and Will Strongheart as Crazy Horse, with Bert Thomas Morris as narrator. The production combines historical re-enactments with commentary from historians and actors.

Sources: IMDb, TMDB, Wikipedia, watch.plex.tv (checked 02 Oct 2026)