The Atlas of North American Exploration: From the Norse Voyages to the Race to the Pole

This is an excellent reference tool for any student of American history, As the title states, the atlas includes all of North America. The book is especially good in detailing the early exploration of the southwest. There are also extensive sections on the early exploration of Canada. The format of the book is well thought out. Detailed maps are accompanied by a generous amount of text that explain and augment the maps. The maps are fairly detailed and have a wealth of information. The maps do a very good job of showing the major and minor river systems that figured in the history of North American exploration. It is this kind of detail that makes this book very helpful. Not only is the book a good stand alone reference, it is also a good supplement to have near at hand when you are reading the journals or history of early explorers. I have found that many editions of the early journals of explorers (and many history books about this subject) do not contain enough maps (or detailed enough maps). This book helps you keep the geographical picture straight in you mind. If you have an interest in this history of exploration, this book is a must. If you are a student of American history, this book is highly recommended. Enjoy!

This book is a history of exploration of the North American continent, revealed mainly in pictures and maps of the particular exploration. It starts with John Cabot's exploration off the coast of Newfoundland in 1497, and ends with Peary's race to the North Pole in 1909. Scores of important exploring ventures are described and mapped. An added feature is a very thorough bibliography. A feast for the eye--and mind.