Woven from a rich tapestry of research, The Artificial River is more than just a historical account of the Erie Canal--it encapsulates a pivotal era in United States history, especially the monumental strides in engineering, commerce, and socio-cultural shifts between the War of 1812 and the Civil War.

Join Carol Sheriff as she vividly paints the human endeavor behind the making of the Erie Canal--an artificial river that irrevocably changed landscapes and lives.

This skillfully crafted narrative opens the door to the past, inviting you on a fascinating journey through time. The Artificial River immerses you in the lives of ordinary yet extraordinary individuals--farmers, businessmen, tourists, and government officials--who stood at the forefront of this significant transformation.

The Erie Canal wasn't just a waterway-it was a lifeline that laid the foundation for the capitalist democracy we know today. The Artificial River is a cleverly bound chronicle of American commerce and the spirit of public good--one that's sure to captivate history enthusiasts and casual readers alike.