Uncovering the Human Side of the Lewis and Clark Expedition

While working on a book about the Lewis and Clark expedition, I experienced a personal incident that brought me closer to the raw realities faced by the explorers. This unexpected encounter with a dog attack blurred the lines between my life and the historical figures I was studying. It drove me to look beyond mere names and dates and delve into the authentic experiences of those involved in the expedition.

I aimed to uncover the human aspect of history by connecting with the stories of real people. For instance, when reflecting on Sacajawea's journey through the Rockies with her infant, I couldn't help but think of my own children and the challenges my wife faced while breastfeeding. This personal connection highlighted the extreme hunger the expedition endured, leading them to eat their horses, a practice taboo among the Shoshone people.

Through interviews with Shoshone descendants, I learned about the cultural significance and taboos surrounding their dietary practices, offering a deeper understanding of the expedition's hardships. This approach allowed me to see history not just as a series of events but as a tapestry of human experiences, emotions, and cultural intersections.