Robert H. Gudmestad

I found this book to be very interesting. I am fascinated by southern history. This volume discusses how the steam boat on the Western Rivers, as the Coast Guard refers to them, stimulated the development of the cotton industry. Well written and informative.

This is a very detailed look at steamboats and their impact on the southern "cotton" states. It is well written and includes many quotes and first-hand accounts. I was particularly interested in the section dealing with Native Americans and how steamboats played a role in the Indian Removal Program. I thought the book contained too much information for the casual reader, but it is perfect for school projects. Overall, this is a very well written and researched book.