Explorers and Travellers

"Explorers and Travellers" by A. W. Greely is a collection of short stories from the nineteenth century that tells of the American exploration of the North American continent. The book starts by shining light on the importance of people like Louis Joliet, who were important in mapping the lands that would make up the United States. The beginning of the book shows Greely's aim to bring to light the unnoticed achievements of American explorers. It talks about how important the Mississippi River basin was and the story of Louis Joliet's explorations, including his partnership with Jacques Marquette, a Jesuit priest. The account tells of their journey from Quebec through the Great Lakes and into the Mississippi River, showing Joliet as a talented navigator and a man of courage in the face of adversity. Their mission's goal was to to help trade and make relationships with Native American tribes while also improving geographical knowledge of the area. The story reflects not only their discoveries but also the historical setting and effects of exploration.