Living Out a 'Little House on the Prairie' Fantasy in South Dakota
Briefly

In the memory of rural life, Wilder's writings romanticized the brutality of pioneer existence, allowing readers to view the expansive land as a metaphor for freedom.
Today, the Ingalls Homestead attracts over 20,000 visitors annually, partaking in activities that recreate aspects of pioneer life, nostalgic for those simpler times.
While documenting her life on the prairie, Wilder’s portrayal emphasizes the contrast between harsh realities and the American dream of land and opportunity.
The Homestead Act of 1862 symbolized hope for settlers, yet many faced starvation and violent conflicts, leading to a complex legacy of expansion.
Read at Eater
[
|
]