Minnesota: Shaped by the Land - Hardcover

No hyperbole is needed to convey the drama of more than three centuries of Minnesota's growth. A straightforward examination of the state's record of agricultural productivity, industrial output, political innovation, and sustained intellectual vigor in its cities and towns and all along its rural byways readily proves that the state has long nurtured success. But as stewards of a magnificent land whose resources and resilience that were once thought limitless, its residents face a future likely to be terribly unforgiving of ignorance or carelessness. Deborah Gelbach's vivid evocation of Minnesota's past, and frank assessment of its present, addresses these issues in a thoughtful and revealing text. And what rewarding reading she has ensured. Whether the heady visions of empire conjured by Jean Nicolet's reports to Quebec early in the seventeenth century, or the scarcely less dramatic prospects posed by Cray's super-computers late in the twentieth, this book's contents provoke reflection and stir imagination.The narrative provides answers to curious questions such as how a well-placed puff of air revolutionized wheat milling and why the gopher gained glory. However, it also addressed epochal changes such as the inexorable shift of people from farm to city and the exhaustion of the Mesabi's vast cache of iron ore. Here, too, are rapacious robber barons and menders of hearts, as well as the heroism of Charles Lindbergh and Hubert Humphrey. More than 400 images in historical black and white and brilliant color illuminate the pages. A special chapter, “Chronicles of Leadership,” explores the histories of businesses and organizations which have contributed to Minnesota enterprise. Finally, an illustrated timeline of significant events enhances the main text and puts everything into perspective. Minnesota, Shaped by the Land will inform and delight longtime residents and newcomers alike. This volume is destined to be a treasured keepsake.

Deborah Gelbach is a prolific business writer who's cogent and insightful articles have appeared in many regional publications through the years. She has deep roots in Minnesota, having lived in the state most of her life. Gelbach has served on the boards of the Saint Paul Chamber of Commerce, Saint Paul Rotary, the Saint Paul Chamber of Commerce Charitable Foundation, and the Saint Paul Neighborhood Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR) program. She is also involved in the regional Boy and Girl Scout programs as a volunteer and the Saint Paul Kids Voting Program. Having earned her B.A. in English from Hamline University, Gelbach has also done research, writing, and marketing consulting for a number of nonprofits and corporations throughout Minnesota