PREFACE 



The history of the United States is fundamentally a history of rapid 

 exploitation of immensely valuable natural resources. The possession 

 and exploitation of these resources have given most of the distinctive 

 traits to American character, economic development, and even politi- 

 cal and social institutions. Whatever preeminence the United States 

 may have among the nations of the world, in industrial activity, effi- 

 ciency and enterprise, in standards of comfort in living, in wealth, and 

 even in such social and educational institutions as are dependent upon 

 great wealth, must be attributed to the possession of these great nat- 

 ural resources ; and the maintenance of our preeminence in these 

 respects is dependent upon a wise and economical use of remaining 

 resources. Thus the question of conservation is one of the most impor- 

 tant questions before the American people, and if the present study 

 throws even a weak and flickering light upon that question, its 

 publication will be abundantly justified. 



The writer acknowledges a heavy obligation to some of his teachers, 

 friends and colleagues for helpful criticism and suggestions. The work 

 was begun under the direction of Professor Charles J. Bullock of Har- 

 vard University, and thanks are due him for searching criticism and 

 suggestions, and for kindly help and encouragement. The writer owes 

 much also to Professor Frederick J. Turner, Professor John M. Gries, 

 and Dean E. F. Gay, of Harvard University, and to colleagues at the 

 Iowa State College — Professor L. B. Schmidt, Professor John E. 

 Brindley, Professor G. B. McDonald, and Professor J. J. Reighard. 

 Professor F. H. Hodder of the University of Kansas offered valuable 

 suggestions regarding some points in American history, and Doctor 

 R. M. Woodbury read several chapters and submitted many able 

 criticisms. 



The writer wishes also to acknowledge valuable suggestions from 

 Mr. R. S. Kellogg, regarding points touching the lumber industry. 



