"The Covered Wagon" is a silent film released in 1923, directed by James Cruze. It is one of the earliest feature-length Westerns and depicts the journey of a group of pioneers traveling westward in covered wagons during the 1840s. The film showcases the challenges and adventures faced by these settlers as they navigate the American frontier. The story follows two families, the Benson and Hawkins families, as they embark on a perilous journey to find new land. The film highlights themes of perseverance, community, and the spirit of exploration, capturing the essence of the American pioneer experience.