Emerson Hough's 'The Passing of the Frontier' offers readers a compelling historiographic narrative of the Old West's transformation in the period following the American Civil War. Through meticulous research and vibrant prose, Hough paints a vivid tableau of the era, interweaving tales of the gold rush, legendary outlaws, and the indomitable spirit of the frontier people. The novel's foundation rests upon the literary tradition of the historical western, but Hough departs from mere romanticization, instead delivering an insightful analysis embedded within his storytelling, and the result is a work echoing with the 'elan' of adventurous history that shaped the American identity. A chronicler of American life, Emerson Hough was uniquely positioned to write 'The Passing of the Frontier', having been born during the tail end of the Civil War and observing the West's evolution firsthand. His oeuvre frequently explored themes of law, society, and wilderness, and this narrative serves as a testament to his dedication to preserving and interpreting the nation's past. Drawing upon personal experience as well as historical records, his prose achieves a balance between the authority of a historian and the flair of a raconteur. Recommended for enthusiasts of American history and the Old West, 'The Passing of the Frontier' is an essential read for those seeking to understand the complex tapestry of the United States' formation. It invites the reader to take a scholarly journey through the chapters of a critical epoch in American expansion and the end of an era that still captivates the imagination. Hough's work not only documents historical phenomena but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the frontier, making it a treasured addition to the libraries of historians and literary connoisseurs alike.