The works of writers such as Thomas Bangs Thorpe and Davy Crockett significantly shaped the appeal of the American West primarily through creative, humorous, and engaging storytelling that highlighted the adventurous spirit and opportunities of the frontier.
Both writers crafted narratives that romanticized the West, portraying it as a land of adventure, freedom, and rugged individualism. Thorpe's tales often featured a playful yet exaggerated view of Western life, while Crockett's writings presented him as a heroic figure, embodying the spirit of the American frontier. Their stories captured the imagination of readers, painting the West as an exciting and desirable place, thereby encouraging many to consider moving to the region in search of their own adventures.
Contrary to the idea that these tales discouraged people, they served to inspire and attract settlers, adventurers, and those seeking new opportunities. By emphasizing the positive aspects of life in the West, these writers played a significant role in shaping a mythos that contributed to the westward expansion of the United States.