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DeWitt Clinton and Amos Eaton: Geology and Power in Early New York


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This Book excerpt explores the intersection of geology and politics in early 19th-century New York. It examines how prominent figures like DeWitt Clinton leveraged geological knowledge to advance ambitious projects such as the Erie Canal, shaping both the state's infrastructure and its scientific identity.  The text highlights the contributions of Amos Eaton, a key figure in establishing geological survey methods and education, and analyzes how geological discoveries influenced the cultural landscape, impacting literature and art through the works of Irving, Bryant, and Cooper. The interplay between scientific investigation, political ambition, and artistic expression is central to the narrative, showing how geological understanding influenced New York's development. The role of diluvial theories in shaping early geological thought and their interaction with religious beliefs are also explored.

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