The Shaping of America: A Geographical Perspective on 500 Years of History, Volume 3: Transcontinental America, 1850-1915

This book offers a new perspective on a key phase of U.S. history, and in a very readable way. Strongly raccomended.

From the very start Mr. Meinig teaches the reader, even learned ones, a new way of seeing how America was settled. His perspctive includes all members of the societies which he covers. While the book is very factual, it is written in such a way that it opens ones imagination. By using a geographical viewpoint, you are able to 'see' the topics he covers. My only criticism is that he does not reference his quotes in a traditional manner, though a quick perusal of the bibliography shows they are valid. Once you realize that he includes an extensive list of sources, this concern disappears. I recommend this to anyone who wants to discover more about the discovery of our land.

Each of the three volumes of Meinig's history finished so far has simply whet my appetite for the next. This third volume is that much sharper and better-focused than the prior two, making it an unforgettable experience to read. From how the experience of settling Oregon differed from Utah or California, to the way the choice of where railroads were laid affected both patterns of settlement and ecology, to how the relationship between U.S. railroads and European steamship lines affected patterns of settlement by different ethnic groups, he is always enlightening. This is a book that will change how you look at the country and how you look at history. I can't recommend it enough.

Meinig's literary style makes this book on American historical geography interesting and very "readable". I would highly recommend the Shaping of America series for the geographer, history buff or anyone just interested in a new perspective on the evolution of the United States.