The Pathfinder: John Charles Fremont and the Course of American Empire
By Tom Chaffin
I have been running into John Charles Fremont so often in my reading, each time assuring me of his significance in the shaping of the American Empire. Then, I search and find a book with that very concept in its title. John Charles Fremont was a topographical engineer for the Corp of Engineers, out in the field long before Howard Stansbury and his crew.
Joseph Smith read Fremont. He considered taking his Saints into the mountains based on what he read. And before submitting to arrest in Carthage, he seriously considered running with his brother. He had some idea where he would go because of his readings.
Brigham Young was familiar with Fremont’s work as well. I think the elders spent several evenings sitting around reading about the trek west and the Oregon and Immigration Trail. I am so eager to read this book and share some information through a book report.
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