Undaunted Courage: The Pioneering First Mission to Explore America's Wild Frontier

by Stephen E. Ambrose
Undaunted Courage: The Pioneering First Mission to Explore America's Wild Frontier cover
Good Books rating 4.48
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  • ID: 6658
  • Added: 2025-11-27
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781471160783
  • Published: 2016-08-11
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Undaunted Courage is the gripping tale of Captain Meriwether Lewis, chosen by President Thomas Jefferson to lead a pioneering voyage into the wild, vast lands of the Great Plains and Rockies. This was not just an exploring expedition, but a military venture into hostile territory, filled with drama, suspense, and danger. The story is brought to life with colorful characters like Jefferson, the frontiersman William Clark, the Indian girl Sacagawea, and the French-Indian hunter Drouillard. It's a thrilling adventure that combines romance, personal tragedy, and outstanding scholarship, making it one of the great adventure stories of all time. /n/nThe book delves into the personal struggles of Lewis, who, despite receiving a hero's welcome upon his return, felt his discoveries did not meet Jefferson's expectations. This led to a downward spiral of alcoholism and debt, adding a tragic layer to the heroic tale. The narrative is rich with historical details and vivid descriptions, offering a deep insight into the early American frontier and the complexities of the expedition.

Reviews
The Library Ladies · 2017-09-11
engaging 4.50

The book is commended for its focus on the relationship between Lewis and Jefferson. The narrative is praised for its depth and historical accuracy.

The Library Ladies blog post delves into Ambrose's focus on Captain Meriwether Lewis and his relationship with President Jefferson, which is a driving force behind the expedition. The post highlights how Ambrose's detailed narrative brings to light the complexities and challenges of the mission. The blog appreciates the historical accuracy and the way Ambrose weaves together the personal and political aspects of the story. It's a book that offers a rich understanding of a pivotal moment in American history.

Quick quotes

    Ambrose focuses his tale particularly on Captain Meriwether Lewis and his relationship with President Jefferson.

    The narrative brings to light the complexities and challenges of the mission.

    Ambrose weaves together the personal and political aspects of the story.

Nathan Eberline · Nathan Eberline · 2009-01-25
thorough 4.75

The book is noted for its thorough and arresting storytelling. The relationship between Lewis and Clark is a standout aspect.

Nathan Eberline's review on his blog highlights how Ambrose tells the story of the Corps of Discovery in a thorough and arresting manner. Eberline particularly appreciates the focus on the relationship between Lewis and Clark, which adds a personal dimension to the historical account. The review suggests that the book is not just a retelling of historical events but a deeply engaging narrative that captures the essence of the expedition. Eberline's perspective is that the book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history.

Quick quotes

    Ambrose tells the story of the corps in a thorough and arresting way.

    Highlighting the relationship between Lewis & Clark throughout.

    The book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history.

Goodreads · 1996-02-15
insightful 4.20

The book is praised for its engaging narrative and thorough exploration of the expedition. Readers appreciate the depth of research and the compelling storytelling.

Many readers on Goodreads highlight how Ambrose brings the Lewis and Clark expedition to life with vivid detail and engaging prose. The book is not just a historical account but a gripping story that captures the spirit of exploration and the challenges faced by the pioneers. The focus on the personal relationships, particularly between Lewis and Clark, adds a human element that makes the narrative even more compelling. Overall, it's a book that educates and entertains in equal measure.

Quick quotes

    This was much more than a bunch of guys out on an exploring and mapping mission.

    Ambrose's narrative is engaging and thorough, highlighting the human side of the expedition.

    The book is a profound look into the soul of a young nation and the character of the men chosen to explore its uncharted heart.

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