This is a study of the nature and role of science in the exploration of the Canadian Arctic. It covers the century that began with the British Royal Naval expeditions of 1818 and ends with the Canadian Arctic Expedition of 1913-1918. Professor Levere focuses on the imperialistic dimensions and nationalistic aspirations that informed arctic science, and situates its rise in the context of economic and military history of nineteenth and early twentieth century Europe and North America. Accessibly written and prodigously researched, Science and the Canadian Arctic should appeal to an audience of historians, environmental scientists, and anyone interested in the Arctic.