The Spanish named it the "Great River." After the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, the Rio Grande is the third longest river in the Unites States. In its long and shifting 1,885-mile course to the sea and in the history that unfolded near its banks, it also is one of North America"s most dramatic rivers. Peter Lourie explores the Rio Grande to discover what makes the "Great River" great. He followed the river--by car, by raft, and on foot--from its headwaters in Colorado snow-capped Rockies to the Gulf of Mexico"s tropical shores. His journey takes him into the territories of Bat Masterson, Billy the Kid, and Pancho Villa. He visits an ancient pueblo where he witnesses an annual feast day and corn dance. He walks the border of the United States and Mexico with the U.S. Border Patrol, visiting towns on both sides. Finally, the author"s journey ends with a dive into the warm waters of the Gulf. Here is the Rio Grande of history and legend, vividly brought to life through a lively and informative text, illustrated with full-color and archival photographs.