whites and the aborigines. When this hope was overshadowed by the advance of hardy frontiersmen— few, indeed, at first, but gradually increasing in numbers until they grew to be formidable-the Indians commenced hostilities, and in their endeavours to force the daring intruders to desert their favourite hunting-grounds, and retrace their steps across the Ohio River, Kentucky became the battle-ground of the West, and by the wonderful endurance and energy of her pioneers, opened a peaceful path to those who came afterward and settled in the territories beyond. From this circumstance, and from the frank-hearted patriotism of her people, Kentucky occupies a high position among the States of the Union, and exercises a wide influence in the councils of the nation.
This volume records briefly, yet, it is believed, with fidelity and clearness, every event of leading interest connected with the progression of the state to its present position; at the same time there is presented, as much in detail as possible, a narrative of those thrilling adventures of the early settlers which give to the history of Kentucky the fascination of a romance.