Stephen E. Ambrose (1936–2002)

Having lived in Clatsop County, Oregon, very near where L&C built their fort and spent the winter, I have some general knowledge of the expedition. But I learned a lot by reading this book. It did take me a while...it's not a page-turner, but it was consistently interesting. We sort of learned about the 'heroic' version in school, so the realities of Indians, syphilis, and Sacajawea being practically a child herself were eye-opening, as was Lewis's eventual death and possible mental illness (or was it substance abuse?). In any case, I think Ambrose made the most of his material, and wasn't too starry-eyed about his subject.

I do wonder why Lewis wasn't ever able to attract a wife. He certainly tried hard enough, and had plenty of looks and glory to recommend him, and a seemingly bright future, being a particular friend of the president. Maybe his behavior around women wasn't exemplary. Maybe there were clues to his later afflictions which put them off. But I do wonder.

I also wonder why he never published his journals. It seemed as if he had some sort of a mental block around them, for no discernible reason. I suppose we'll never know.

Five stars for this work, even though I don't expect to re-read it. Lots of interesting detail and history, a chapter of Americana that is justly celebrated but not without its flaws. Ambrose kept his commentary to a minimum, although he does have opinions about slavery and Clark's treatment of York, the only enslaved man on the expedition. He also calls Lewis out on his treatment of the Indians at various points, although it seems that Lewis was perhaps more enlightened than many of his countrymen at the time.… (more)