Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for Astoria:
This has nothing to do with the Goonies. Sorry.
Quick synopsis:
The story of John Jacob Astor trying to populate the Pacific Northwest and monopolize the fur trade in the area.
Fact for Non-History People:
Astoria, Oregon is named after John Jacob Astor. He never stepped foot there. Too busy being rich.
Fact for History Nerds:
The overland journey to Astoria identified some very important paths. Specifically, Robert Stuart found an extremely important leg of what would soon become called the Oregon Trail.
My Take on Astoria:
I love when a history book contains a fantastic leadership experiment as well. Joan Druett’s Island of the Lost is my favorite, but Astoria is right there with it. Let me set the scene for you.
John Jacob Astor is super rich. He wants to be more rich and he realizes if he sets up a colony out in the Pacific Northwest, he can be even bigger in the fur trade and thus much richer. He also sells the idea to a guy named Thomas Jefferson who also happened to be president. Astor is no fool. He isn’t going to send just one party. He is going to send one by land, and one by sea.
In theory, the sea path is much easier. Ships have been sailing the Pacific for hundreds of years. Sure, some of the coast is new but nothing that can’t be handled. The overland route, however, is almost totally unknown (to white people).
I won’t spoil it, but this book is a great illustration of how a good leader can overcome anything and a bad leader will refuse to take a win. On top of that, the entire expedition would get caught in multiple crossfires when it comes to world politics ultimately leading to its inevitable conclusion. It’s a great book. Read it.
Verdict:
Great book for everyone, but especially anyone who loves exploration. Buy it here!
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