Sea of Glory: America's Voyage of Discovery, the U.S. Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842

Nathaniel Philbrick tells the story of the United States Exploring Expedition, a naval mission of six ships led by Lieutenant Charles Wilkes between 1838 and 1842, which surveyed the Pacific Ocean, Antarctica and the Northwest coast of North America. The crews charted islands, collected specimens, and took part in conflicts with Pacific islanders, and Wilkes was court-martialled on his return for his harsh leadership. Philbrick describes the dangers of the voyage, such as storms, icebergs and the loss of ships, and the legacy of the expedition's collections, which became part of the Smithsonian Institution.

It is for readers of narrative history and the age of exploration. It is a vivid account of a lesser-known American adventure.

Outward-looking and clear-cut; a moderate read.

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