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How the West Was Won 1977

★ 7.0/10 · 33 votes WesternDrama 3 seasons · 28 eps Ended
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Quick answer

What is How the West Was Won?

How the West Was Won is a television series that chronicles the experiences of the Macahan family. The narrative follows the group as they depart from Virginia to undertake a journey across the country.

Type
TV series
Year
1977
Status
Ended
Episodes
28
Runtime
60 minutes
First aired
Feb 6, 1977
Last aired
Apr 23, 1979
Original language
EN
Origin
US
Networks
ABC
Genres
Western, Drama
Updated
Availability by region

Where to watch

Streaming availability data provided by JustWatch via TMDB. Availability changes by country and date; verify on the provider before subscribing or purchasing.

Planning tool

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Estimate the schedule using 28 episodes and an average 60-minute runtime.

Trailer

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Overview

How the West Was Won is a television series that chronicles the experiences of the Macahan family. The narrative follows the group as they depart from Virginia to undertake a journey across the country. Led by Zeb Macahan, the family members travel through the American landscape with the goal of pioneering a new land and establishing a new home in the West. The series focuses on the challenges and developments encountered by the family during their migration and their efforts to settle in the American West. By centering on the collective movement of the Macahans, the program explores the themes of westward expansion and the pursuit of a new life in a frontier environment. The story remains focused on the family unit as they navigate the geographical and social obstacles inherent in their trek. Through their shared experiences, the Macahans work toward their objective of building a future in a new territory, illustrating the trials faced by those who sought to pioneer the American West during this period.

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Should you watch it?

“A pioneering family journeys westward in search of a new life.”

Reasons to watch
  • Strong ensemble cast including James Arness and Eva Marie Saint
  • Expansive portrayal of westward expansion
  • Mix of personal and historical storytelling
Keep in mind
  • May feel slow to modern audiences
  • Limited availability in some regions

You enjoy classic Westerns with a focus on family and settlement.

Suitable for general audiences with mild thematic elements of frontier life.

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Episode guide

Season 1 · 3 episodes Open the complete Season 1 guide →
Season 2 · 14 episodes
Season 3 · 11 episodes

Frequently asked questions

Is this based on the 1962 movie?

Yes, it's loosely based on the 1962 Cinerama film of the same name.

When did the series air?

The series aired from 1977 to 1979, preceded by a TV film in 1976.

Who are the main characters?

The show follows the Macahan family, led by Zeb Macahan, as they travel west.

How many episodes are there?

The series includes a two-hour TV film and continued as a mini-series.

Where can I watch it?

Availability varies; check streaming platforms or classic TV collections.