Meriwether Lewis

By Thomas Danisi

Subjects: Biography, Explorers, Clark, william, 1770-1838, Lewis, meriwether, 1774-1809, West (u.s.), description and travel, Discovery and exploration, Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806) http://id.loc.gov/authorities/names/n84018492, Lewis and clark expedition (1804-1806), Description and travel, Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806), West (u.s.), discovery and exploration

Description: The authors concentrate on what Lewis was doing immediately before and after the journey through Western territory. They assess his role as a natural scientist and as governor of the Louisiana Territory. Thomas Jefferson thrust the latter role upon Lewis during a time of crisis. As Danisi and Jackson reveal, he would much rather have devoted this time compiling his notes and scientific findings into a vivid narrative of the expedition's adventures. Finally, using medical documentation, the book reveals the actual cause of Lewis's untimely death.--From publisher description.