DOC Planting an Empire: The Early Chesapeake in British North America (Regional Perspectives on Early America) by Jean B. Russo; J. Elliott Russo in History

Description

This richly illustrated; informative; and inviting book intertwines two fascinating stories of discovery. The first; among the earliest classics of New World adventure; recounts Captain John Smith's exploration of Chesapeake Bay 400 years ago; the second revisits this stunning landscape as it is today—both to showcase its still-unspoiled splendors and to issue a timely warning of looming threats to its vibrant but fragile ecology.Dozens of dazzling full-color contemporary photographs evoke the Chesapeake spirit in all its many moods; while a wonderfully wide-ranging selection of archival images span the four centuries since John Smith first sailed; rowed; and wandered its woods and waterways; mapping the wilderness shores of an untamed America.The author; a veteran naturalist at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation; has spent decades leading tours and teaching classes about the region. An ideal guide; he shares both his delight in the Bay's glorious diversity and his deep concern for its future. In addition; his unique blend of experience; environmental sensitivity; and historical expertise offers modern visitors a rare opportunity to discover the Chesapeake as Smith did so long ago; leaving beaten paths and familiar waters behind to learn why Congress will soon designate it as the first of America's official National Historic Water Trails.For history buffs; conservationists; armchair travelers; tourists planning a trip; and anyone who simply loves first-rate nature photography; this beautiful book more than meets the high standard readers have come to expect from National Geographic.