James Oliver Curwood
The Great Lakes
The Vessels That Plough Them: Their Owners, Their Sailors, and Their Cargoes, Together with a Brief History of Our Inland Seas
"The Great Lakes" by James Oliver Curwood is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the vibrant life surrounding the Great Lakes, delving into the significance of their commerce, the people and industries that thrive there, and providing a brief historical perspective on these vital freshwater seas. Curwood aims to illuminate both the economic impact and the romanticism associated with this region, appealing to a broad audience interested in the lakes' influence on American industry and culture. The opening of the text introduces the author’s intent to highlight the often-overlooked importance of the Great Lakes to the American economy, emphasizing how they serve not only as essential fresh-water routes for shipping but also as cultural and historical landmarks. Curwood shares his encounter with a successful ship owner who expresses pride in the development of this region, igniting a sense of American identity tied to these waterways. He notes the stark contrast between the rich resources of the Great Lakes and the general public's ignorance of their significance, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of the ships, their cargoes, and the stories underlying the region's industrial growth.