This collection of biographical essays by several leading Nevada scholars focuses on fourteen individuals whose careers afford unique perspectives to help us understand and appreciate the growth of postwar Nevada. The leaders discussed come from remarkably diverse backgrounds, and their contributions have embraced every facet of the state's economic, political, cultural, and social development. An introductory essay by volume editor Richard O. Davies discusses the conditions that led to the phenomenal growth of postwar Nevada and made possible the successful careers of such diversely talented individuals. Davies and his fellow contributors offer a fascinating glimpse of a thriving western state and the dedicated and energetic individuals who have led it to its current success.