Curious Mammal

One of the most troubling problems any historian must face is that we are at a disadvantage when it comes to precious historical material. Let's save the argument whether social science is really a science for later. The goods, the loot, the tangible evidence in which historians so desperately need is in limited quantity. Let me illustrate this point. If our vast universe can be whittled down, let's assume this circle is it and within this circle is everything that has occurred in that said universe. Obviously, this circle would have to be quite large , much larger than the one on your screen, in fact you and your screen would be part of it. Nevermind. Now to get to where we humans can reasonably say we are, this has got to shrink a bit, or quite a lot. After all, not only have we not been around forever, but we definitely haven't seen it all. Which brings me to our next circle. This circle represents everything in the known universe that we, as humans, have observed...

Tony Horowitz does a fantastic job making the case that, not only is our national story wrong and misleading, but also vastly inadequate for any basic understanding of our American History. He fills in the gaps between Columbus and the Pilgrims and paints a vivid picture of the trials and errors of thousands who came to America in hopes of plunder and riches. Paralleling the history he writes about, Horowitz visits many of the places he researches and discovers along the way how myth has triumphed over fact, and how that may not be a bad thing in the end. Funniest tidbit ( author's valiant effort to make history funny ): Upon landing in Plymouth, the first Native American the Pilgrims met not only spoke English, but asked if they had brought any beer.   Overall: Horowitz's matter of fact tone and personal hardship trying to experience the traditions of Pilgrim Enthusiasts and Viking Actors make up for the lack of in-depth historical research. Overall Grade: B+