This is a group biography of the first geologists, the people who were first to excavate from the layers of the world its buried history. These first geologists were made up primarily of gentlemen with the necessary wealth to support their interests, yet also included clergymen, academics and women. The new science of geology was pursued by this assorted band because it opened a window on Earth's ancient past. They showed courage in facing the conflict...

"From historian and critically acclaimed author of The Three-Cornered War comes the propulsive and vividly told story of how Yellowstone became the world's first national park amid the nationwide turmoil and racial violence of the Reconstruction era. Each year nearly four million people visit Yellowstone National Park-one of the most popular of all national parks-but few know the fascinating and complex historical context in which it was established....