The Harriman Alaska Expedition Retraced

"This book reveals hard facts, challenges simple assumptions, and transforms Alaska from a wistful idea to a real place with its own changing ecology, economies, society, and values. It includes essays by the group of scientists, writers, and artists who made an expedition to Alaska in 2001, tracing the historic route of railroad baron Edward H. Harriman's ambitious journey in 1899. Together, the group visited the diverse cultures, communities, and ecosystems of Alaska. In their accounts, they share their conversations with mayors, teachers, tribal leaders and elders, children, business owners, and conservationists in order to present Alaska as it is, not simply as a fantasy on airport posters and in tourism brochures." "Following the ship's route, the book addresses wilderness conservation biology and ecology, American history, natural history and anthropology, and travel and exploration."--Jacket.