John Lloyd Stephens was the first popular American travel writer. He was born in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, 28 November 1805 to Benjamin and Clemence Lloyd Stephens. Although his parents were both natives of New Jersey, Stephens was brought up and educated in New York. He received his classical education in the schools of Mr. Boyle and the blind teacher Joseph Nelson. His education prepared him for early entry into college, and at the age of thirteen he entered Columbia College. Stephens was a favorite among the students, and although he entered low in class standing, he was at the head of his class at his graduation in 1822. Stephens then entered the New York office of Daniel Lord in order to read law. After a year with Lord, Stephens attended the Tapping Reeve Law School of Judge James Gould in Litchfield, Connecticut. Stephens returned to New York the following year and...