Rivers of America
Rivers have played a central role in the development of American society, with a long history of providing a means for human’s exploration, trade, and settlement. They have not only shaped the nation’s physical landscape but also its cultural and political identity. In this context, Doyle 2018 investigates the historical significance of rivers in America, examining their contribution to the economic and political landscape of America. McCool 2012 expands on this by exploring the history, politics, and cultural importance of American rivers, framing them as “a beacon of brighter days ahead” amid environmental and political challenges, through the combination of historical analysis, political critique, and personal anecdotes in his work.
Moreover, numerous scholars have explored American rivers’ significance in the development of American civilization. For instance, Smith 2019 investigates Mississippi river and its evolving cultural importance during Mark Twain‘s era, by exploring Mark Twain’s connection to the river, which he referred to as his “real field of work,” and how this relationship informed Twain’s literary legacy. Similarly, Kelman 2006 investigates the relationship between the Mississippi River and New Orleans, focusing on how attempts to harness the river and its waterfront have influenced the creation of commercial and public spaces in the city. In addition, Henshaw 2011 explores the reciprocal relationship between human activities and ecological changes along the Hudson River. Lastly, Summit 2013, combines extensive research on the Colorado River to understand the river’s history and its relationship with humans, framing the river’s history as a “microcosm” to study contemporary environmental issues through insights from the environmental humanities.
Books
Organized into five parts, this book delves into the connection between rivers and American history as a means to discuss how the engagement with river landscapes has influenced regulatory policies and practices regarding river management in America.
The book is divided into four parts, part I discusses the relationship between history and biology, and the importance of collaboration between these disciplines. Part II focuses on the river as sources of sustenance by Native Americans and the exploitation by the European settlers, drawing attention to the unsustainable practices. Part III examines the ecological repercussions of industries like forestry and agriculture on the river. Part IV explores the Hudson’s cultural and spiritual influence, including its role in early environmental movements.
In this work, Kelman narrates key historical moments to showcase the salient tension between human control and river’s unpredictability, from legal battles and steamboat growth to crises like yellow fever and the 1927 flood. Kelman also describes the privatization of the waterfronts and mid-20th-century activism to reclaim parts of the riverfront for public use, thereby showing how the river has influenced the identity of the city.
McCool uncovers the connection between rivers and American culture by using rivers as symbols of national identity, history, and values. Through personal reflections and exploring more insights, he depicts rivers as both powerful natural forces and cultural icons that have influenced collective American experiences.
Smith, Thomas Ruys. 2019. Deep Water: The Mississippi River in the Age of Mark Twain. Baton Rouge: Louisiana State University Press.
In this work, Smith indicates that there is a lack of research on Twain’’ relationship with the Mississippi. He objects to the idea that Twain portrayed the river in isolation, and argues that the river has larger significance beyond local contexts. Therefore, he attempts to provide a context to understand Twain’s work by describing the diverse voices and stories that affected the identity of the Mississippi during Twain’s time.
Summitt frames the Colorado River’s history as a “microcosm” for studying global ecological challenges, using insights from environmental humanities to analyze long-term patterns and human impact. Part I provides a chronological account of the river’s history and Part II deals with specific issues, which culminates in a conclusion about the long-standing problems with water scarcity and quality in the story of Colorado River.