William Morris Davis provides a detailed and comprehensive account of the life and accomplishments of John Wesley Powell in his biographical memoir. The book delves into Powell's early life, education, and his pioneering work as a geologist and explorer in the American West.

Davis paints a vivid picture of Powell's daring expeditions down the Colorado River and his contributions to the field of geology. Powell's determination and passion for exploring the unknown are evident throughout the book, making it a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of American exploration.

One of the strengths of this memoir is Davis's meticulous research and attention to detail. He presents a well-rounded portrait of Powell, highlighting both his successes and failures, as well as his relationships with fellow explorers and scientists.

Overall, Biographical Memoir of John Wesley Powell, 1834-1902 is a captivating and informative read that sheds light on the life of a remarkable individual who played a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the American West. Davis's writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of exploration and geology.

Book Description:
This is Volume VIII of the National Academy of Sciences Biographical Memoirs series. It is read as 33 sections using the memoir headings. John Wesley Powell was a leading figure in the geological explorations of the West and helped establish the federal U.S. Geological Survey in 1879. He also led the Bureau of Ethnology and advocated for better treatment and study of Native American tribes and culture. He wrote a definitive study of the arid western U.S., advocating for thoughtful irrigation and land management practices. Powell predicted that water rights purchased by corporations, rather than tied to the land, would be a major political and environmental issue. John Wesley Powell was a scientific frontiersman. His life reveals the energetic working of a vigorous and independent personality, full of inspiration, power, and enterprise. He was a founder of major scientific organizations, including the National Geographic Society, Geological Society of America, and the Cosmos Club. Powell lived most of his life in Washington, DC. The memoir was written by William Morris Davis was a prominent professor of geology, geography, and meteorology at Harvard and knew Powell personally. Summary by Melanie Schleeter McCalmont