Humboldt's Cosmos

	Author(s): Helferich, Gerard Publisher: Gotham Books Format: Paperback List Price:  $15.00
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Overview:
At the dawn of the nineteenth century Alexander von Humboldt began a five-year, 6,000-mile odyssey through Latin America with his companion Aimé Bonpland that would literally redraw the map of the Americas - and dramatically expand our knowledge of the natural world. Over the course of his daring expedition he would conduct the first extensive scientific exploration of the Andes and Amazon, set an altitude record while climbing the volcano Chimborazo, make revolutionary discoveries regarding volcanoes and the Earth's magnetic field, collect more than 60,000 plant specimens and a multitude of exotic New World animals, and greatly increase our understanding of the lost cultures of the Aztecs and the Inca. At the completion of his epic journey, Humboldt would become, as Stephen Jay Gould noted, perhaps "the world's most famous and influential intellectual," inspiring countless followers, such as Charles Darwin and Louis Agassiz. Packed with rousing adventure and fascinating science history, Humboldt's Cosmos is an unforgettable portrait of a brilliant mind and bold spirit whose explorations ushered in the age of modern science.

Category: Expeditions & Discoveries