The land distributed through the Homestead Act of 1862 was initially inhabited by Native Americans. Investigate how and when Native Americans were displaced from their land by settlers and pioneers. Compose an essay discussing the significance of this land to the Native Americans and to the homesteaders. Do you believe one group had a greater claim to the land than the other?

Consider why Cleage named the play Flyin’ West and evaluate if it is an appropriate title. Provide reasoning for your opinion and suggest three alternative titles for the play.

Read Fannie Flagg’s Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe or watch the 1991 film adaptation, Fried Green Tomatoes. Write an essay, as a film critic, that compares and contrasts Flagg’s narrative with Flyin’ West.

Sophie recounts the disapproving reactions from many African Americans in Memphis when the sisters decided to move West. Imagine you are one of the skeptical individuals who opted to remain in the South, and draft a one-week journal from that perspective. Be sure to include the day Sophie, Minnie, and Fannie departed.

Investigate the early stages of feminism in the United States. What were some of the key issues that motivated the first feminists, and when did African-American women become active in the movement? How do the characters in Flyin’ West embody or challenge the fundamental principles of feminism?