Hoover Dam and the Shaping of the American West explores the societal consequences (positive and negative) of Hoover Dam’s construction. Throughout the program, scholars will lead a variety of sessions that center on three central themes: technology, environment, and human communities. We will consider such ideas as the role of Hoover Dam in the development of the American southwest, how Hoover Dam’s construction reflects broader issues of early 20th century American society, and the legacy of Hoover Dam (and other large water infrastructure projects) for future generations.