Lew Larkin

Author Lew Larkin, historian and Kansas City Star staff member, expands on the role of Missourians in the expansion of the American West in a more or less chronological progression. It begins with Missouri's transition from territory to statehood in 1821 under President Jefferson, and describes its role in the colonization and invasion of Texas, the Mexican war, the California Gold Rush, the Civil War, and ending with the Oklahoma homestead rush.

The writing is almost entirely Larkin's own retelling of history, dotted here and there with colonial sentimentality and racism which clearly reflects the way people thought then (and perhaps into the time when the book itself was written.) There are very few direct quotations, and no footnotes or bibliography. No references to source material whatsoever.

Readers trying to go through this book cover to cover will likely find themselves bogged down in a quagmire of literally hundreds of names, each accompanied by a little factoid, which may or may not be referred again later on. Very few characters presented are given enough material to hang onto and remember. There are also very few images of the characters, and absolutely no maps, which would be very useful in tying the information together.

This book should be used as a guide for seeking further sources of information. History buffs and genealogists may find it helpful for its descriptions of trends and groups coming into and going out of Missouri. It is indexed, enabling the reader to find references to specific individuals, places and events. Taking what one needs from individual chapters here and there will be more rewarding than trying to slog through the entire thing.… (meer)