Using colorful images from his photographic collection, Carlos Schwantes describes the hidden forces and historical events that have impacted the landscape of Idaho. Chances are most libraries have very little on Idaho. Schwantes (Univ. of Idaho) attempts to define Idaho not in touristic or purely historical terms but by its geographical terrain. Few states have such a rocky creation (geographically and politically speaking), and Schwantes does an outstanding job in bringing this little-known state to life. He discusses the early years of Idaho, when it was much larger than its present boundaries. He tells of how trappers, miners, visionaries, railroad magnates, environmentalists, and others left their indelible mark on the state. All this is conveyed by someone with an obvious love for his subject and a deep concern for its future. Long after the tourist books on Idaho are out of date, this work will remain a valuable look at a remarkable part of the country. Highly recommended for all libraries.?Joseph L. Carlson, Vandenberg AFB Lib., Cal. Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. "Chances are most libraries have very little on Idaho. Schwantes (Univ. of Idaho) attempts to define Idaho not in touristic or purely historical terms but by its geographical terrain. Few states have such a rocky creation (geographically and politically speaking), and Schwantes does an outstanding job in bringing this little-known state to life. He discusses the early years of Idaho, when it was much larger than its present boundaries. He tells of how trappers, miners, visionaries, railroad magnates, environmentalists, and others left their indelible mark on the state. All this is conveyed by someone with an obvious love for his subject and a deep concern for its future. Long after the tourist books on Idaho are out of date, this work will remain a valuable look at a remarkable part of the country." Library Journal ( Library Journal ) --Library Journal Carlos Arnaldo Schwantes is a noted historian, author, and teacher at the University of Idaho. He has written many books on western history including Bisbee: Urban Outpost on the Frontier, In Mountain Shadows: A History of Idaho, and Railroad Signatures Across the Pacific Northwest.