Discover books similar to "The Destruction of the Bison: An Environmental History, 1750-1920"

Andrew C. Isenberg

The Destruction of the Bison: An Environmental History, 1750-1920

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In "The Destruction of the Bison: An Environmental History, 1750-1920," Andrew C. Isenberg explores the ecological and cultural consequences of the near-extinction of the American bison. Isenberg argues that the bison's decline was not solely the result of market hunting, but also a consequence of the changing relationship between Native Americans and the animal, as well as broader environmental factors. Isenberg begins by describing the central role of the bison in the lives of Plains Indians, both as a source of sustenance and as a spiritual symbol. He then details the impact of European settlers on the bison population, as they hunted the animals for their hides and to deprive Native Americans of a vital resource. However, Isenberg also emphasizes the role of environmental changes, such as the spread of disease and the encroachment of cattle ranching, in the bison's decline. The second half of the book examines the cultural and ecological legacy of the bison's extinction. Isenberg argues that the loss of the bison had a profound impact on the Plains Indians, who were forced to adapt to new ways of life on reservations. He also explores the role of the bison in the American imagination, as a symbol of the frontier and of the nation's manifest destiny. Isenberg's work is notable for its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from environmental history, Native American studies, and animal studies. He also challenges conventional narratives about the bison's extinction, emphasizing the complexity of the factors that contributed to the animal's decline. Overall, "The Destruction of the Bison" is a thought-provoking and engaging exploration of the ecological and cultural history of the American West. Isenberg's work is a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex relationships between humans, animals, and the environment...

List of books similar to "The Destruction of the Bison: An Environmental History, 1750-1920":

Marc Reisner

Cadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water

'Cadillac Desert' by Marc Reisner is an engaging and informative book about the history of water development in the American West. This book is a suitable recommendation for those who enjoyed 'The Destruction of the Bison' as it highlights the impact of human ambition and exploitation on the environment and the consequences of these actions on the region's ecosystems.

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John Lewis Gaddis

The Landscape of History: How Historians Map the Past

John Lewis Gaddis's 'The Landscape of History' is a fascinating exploration of the craft of history and the ways in which historians interpret the past. This book is a recommended read for those who enjoyed 'The Destruction of the Bison' as it provides insights into the historical methods used to understand and analyze environmental changes.

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Elizabeth Kolbert

The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History

In 'The Sixth Extinction', Elizabeth Kolbert examines the current mass extinction event and its causes, offering a compelling and thought-provoking analysis of the human impact on the natural world. This book is a suitable recommendation for readers of 'The Destruction of the Bison' as it highlights the ongoing threat to biodiversity and the environment.

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Bill McKibben

The End of Nature

Bill McKibben's 'The End of Nature' is a seminal work on the environmental crisis, exploring the ways in which human activities have altered the natural world. This book is a recommended read for those who enjoyed 'The Destruction of the Bison' as it provides a deeper understanding of the human impact on the environment and the need for action.

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Rachel Carson

Silent Spring

Rachel Carson's 'Silent Spring' is a groundbreaking work that exposed the dangers of pesticides and their impact on the environment. This book is a suitable recommendation for readers of 'The Destruction of the Bison' as it highlights the human impact on the natural world and the need for action to protect it.

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