TROPICAL SURGE: A HISTORY OF AMBITION AN Format: Paperback

An engaging historical narrative covering many significant events in the history of south Florida, Tropical Surge includes the major developments and setbacks in the early years of Miami and Key West, as well as an in-depth look at Henry Flagler's amazing Overseas Railway. This well-written history tells the story of the dramatic battle between human ambition and the reality of the West Indian hurricane. By 1935, at least, the hurricane had won. Includes gripping narratives of the 1919, 1926, and 1935 hurricanes in south Florida and the Keys.

Benjamin Reilly received his B.A. at New College of the University of South Florida before venturing north to earn his M.A. and Ph.D. in European history at the University of Pittsburgh, but despite the change of scenery, he retains a keen interest in Florida history. Dr. Reilly’s other works have appeared in several scholarly publications, including the Social Science History Journal and French History. He currently lives with his wife and son on the Persian Gulf, where he teaches history at Carnegie Mellon University’s new overseas branch campus in the petroleum-rich state of Qatar.