Bernard Devoto was an American historian, author, and critic, noted for his works on American history and the American West. His trilogy on the exploration of the American West, including "The Course of Empire," "Across the Wide Missouri," and "The Year of Decision: 1846," received critical acclaim and a Pulitzer Prize. Devoto's writings combined thorough research with engaging narrative, making history accessible to a wide audience. His contributions to historical literature and his passion for the American landscape have left a lasting impact on the field of American history.