Florida is in many ways both the oldest and newest of the megastates. Once an insect-ridden swampland, it is now a top destination for tourism, business, agriculture and innovation. The ideas and actions of a colorful cast of characters--from beloved cultural icons to political heroes and even a socialist dictator--transformed the peninsula. A Barbados native rescued Florida's orange industry after the catastrophic 1835 freeze. Known as the "Grande Dame of the Everglades," Marjory Stoneman Douglas worked tirelessly to save the state's vast, incomparable wetlands from annihilation in the early twentieth century. In the mid-1800s, a Florida doctor developed a precursor to modern air conditioning. Join former U.S. senator George LeMieux and journalist Laura Mize as they profile and rank, according to impact, the twenty-five trailblazers who have changed the state forever.
"Some of the most influential people in the history of Florida include household names such as Henry Flagler, Walt Disney and … Fidel Castro? According to a new book from former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux and co-author Laura Mize, the late Cuban dictator's unlikely role in molding the Sunshine State had to do with his authoritarian regime, which was so bad that it precipitated the influx of Cuban re
Palm Beach Daily News
"There must be something about holding statewide office in Florida that gives leaders a unique appreciation of how we got here and where we're headed. And, once they leave office, they have the time and perspective to share what they've learned.Former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux is the latest to record an entertaining, very useful look back at the people and events that made this state what it is, fo
Tallahassee Democrat
"Made elegant being printed on glossy paper, which makes the illustrations stand out, this book is a must-have for Floridians who love their state and want to brag about it. It will also bring pleasure to readers who love history and enjoy seeing how the present attributes of an area grew out of the creative genius and hard work of far-sighted individuals. Written in an attractive, engaging prose
