The Great River

In "The Great River," Boyce Upholt presents a comprehensive history of the Mississippi River, chronicling the extensive human efforts to control and transform this vital waterway. From the reverence of Indigenous peoples to the ambitions of European settlers, the narrative highlights the ongoing struggle between mankind and nature, illustrating how engineering solutions like levees and dams have altered ecosystems. Upholt also examines the emerging environmental concerns and scientific efforts aimed at restoring the river's health, offering insight into the consequences of humanity’s attempts to dominate the natural world.