Includes bibliographical references (pages 305-315) and index.
Contents:
The West beckons -- Kentucky apprenticeship -- A most welcome invitation -- Westward ho! -- On to the Pacific -- Homeward bound to blaze new trails -- Soldier, diplomat and businessman -- Mr. Governor -- The graying of the redheaded chief.
Summary:
Strange as it may seem today, William Clarkbest known as the American explorer who joined Meriwether Lewis in leading an overland expedition to the Pacifichas many more claims to fame than his legendary Voyage of Discovery, dramatic and daring though that venture may have been. Although studies have been published on virtually every aspect of the Lewis and Clark journey, Wilderness Journey is the first comprehensive account of Clarks lengthy and multifaceted life. Following Lewis and Clarks great odyssey, Clarks service as a soldier, Indian diplomat, and government official placed him at center stage in the national quest to possess and occupy North Americas vast western hinterland and prefigured U.S. policies in the region. In his personal life, Clark had to overcome challenges no less daunting than those he faced in the public arena. Foley pays careful attention to the family and business dimensions of Clarks private world, adding richness to this well-rounded and revealing portrait of the man and his courageous life. Coinciding with the bicentennial in 2004 of the departure of Lewis and Clarks famed Corps of Discovery, Wilderness Journey fills a major gap in scholarship. Intended for the general reader, as well as for specialists in the field, this fascinating book provides a well-balanced and thorough account of one of Americas most significant frontiersmen.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.