Page:History of Iowa From the Earliest Times to the Beginning of the Twentieth Century Volume 1.djvu/32



Geological Survey,” the “Midland Monthly,” the “Overland Stage to California,” by Root and the “Progressive Men of Iowa.” These acknowledgments are made here in preference to quoting authorities in foot notes through the body of the work.

It will be observed that the general plan of this history embraces the following distinctive features:

First.—A connected narrative of the most important events relating to Iowa, shown by scientific investigations to have transpired before the historic period.

Second.—Reasonably authenticated history of the Indian tribes known to have occupied Iowa.

Third.—Brief records of the exploring expeditions which discovered the Mississippi River and valley. The western trend of settlements towards the prairie regions. The acquisition of Louisiana, a country larger than the entire Republic east of the Mississippi River. Discoveries made by the various exploring expeditions which examined portions of the Mississippi Valley and Iowa from 1673 to 1836.

Fourth.—The first white adventurers and pioneer settlers who entered the region which became Iowa. The evolution of civil government from claim regulations to written constitutions. Early political parties, nominating conventions and elections.

Fifth.—Progress of slavery agitation and legislation leading to civil war and emancipation. The part taken by Iowa citizens and lawmakers in these critical times.

Sixth.—Iowa statesmen, citizens and soldiers during the Civil War. History of Iowa Volunteer Regiments.

Seventh.—The period of development in settlement, education, transportation, labor-saving inventions, manufactures, mining and civil government from the close of the war to the beginning of the Twentieth Century.

Eighth.—Historical sketches of Iowa counties; the naming and changing of boundaries; establishing of