Spying on the South

In Spying on the South, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Tony Horwitz embarks on an adventurous journey tracing the footsteps of Frederick Law Olmsted, a young correspondent for the New York Times in the 1850s. As Olmsted explored the South, he forged connections in foreign and often hostile territories, producing vivid dispatches that reshaped American understanding of Southern life and ideals. Horwitz follows Olmsted's path through diverse landscapes—on horseback, steamboats, and muleback—seeking insights into contemporary America’s divisions while uncovering the lasting impact of Olmsted's vision. This engaging narrative captures the spirit of exploration and the quest for common ground against a backdrop of historical significance.