The story of the blending of diverse cultures in a land rich in resources and beauty is an extraordinary one. In this account, the pioneer hunters, trappers, and traders who roamed the Ozark hills and the boatmen who traded on the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers take their place beside the small coterie of St. Louisans whose wealth and influence enabled them to dominate the region politically and economically. Especially appealing for many readers will be the attention Foley gives to common Missourians, to the status of women and blacks, and to Indian-white relations.

Exploring the wilderness -- Missouri's French foundations -- Creating a Spanish barrier -- You cannot lock up an open field -- Villages and farmsteads, common fields and clearings -- Galleries, gumbo, and "La Guignolee" -- We are all now Americans -- The beginnings of republican government -- Pettifoggers, renegadoes, and impatient natives -- The turmoil continues -- Territory in transition -- An uneasy interlude -- Defending the American republic's western border -- A land of promise -- Beyond the Sabbath -- Missouri comes of age -- Epilogue : The legacy of colonial and territorial Missouri.