In 1886, the discovery of rich goldfields in the Klondike precipitated a flood of gold-crazed men and women rushing north to the Yukon territory. Suddenly, the northern wilderness and its aboriginal population were overwhelmed by the newcomers. The presence of large numbers of American miners challenged Canada's sovereignty. Yet it was no lawless frontier. Despite the challenges of blinding snowstorms, steep mountain passes, raging rapids and novice gold seekers, a small force of North-West Mounted Police managed to patrol thousands of square kilometres of wilderness to maintain order.Beginning with the gold rush and extending to the modern era, this revised edition of
Law of the Yukon
covers more than a century of policing the North. Over a hundred archival photos illustrate the stories of the individuals who served in the force, along with accounts of the women and First Nations people who provided essential assistance. From tragic tales of the Lost Patrol and the "Mad Trapper," to curious murders, to dramatic search and rescue missions by dogsled, behind the iconic Canadian Mounties are real people with enthralling stories that require no embroidery.