description Clarence King Overview
Clarence King (1842–1901) was an American geologist, mountaineer, and author who played a foundational role in the development of American earth sciences. He is best known for leading the Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel and serving as the first director of the United States Geological Survey upon its establishment in 1879. King's work focused extensively on the geology of the American West, where he surveyed regions including the Sierra Nevada and provided critical assessments for the mining industry.
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What major government organization was Clarence King the first director of?
Clarence King served as the very first director of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). He was appointed to this foundational role due to his prominence in American earth sciences.
What famous geological survey did Clarence King lead?
He is best known for leading the Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel. This massive undertaking mapped the geology along the route of the transcontinental railroad.
When did Clarence King live?
Clarence King lived from 1842 to 1901. He was a prominent 19th-century American geologist, mountaineer, and author who shaped early American science.
What fields of study was Clarence King known for besides geology?
Besides being a foundational figure in earth sciences, King was also an accomplished mountaineer and a noted author. He was widely celebrated for his adventurous spirit in the American West.
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