Unit 2: Discussion Topic 2
7
Cope vs. Marsh
Read a little bit about these two famous paleontologists and explain who you
think won the "Bone War". Be sure to share any surprising stories you found
about the rivalry between Edward Drinker Cope and Othniel Charles Marsh.
Answer:
In the context of the "Bone Wars," determining a definitive victory between
Edward Drinker Cope and Othniel Charles Marsh is no straightforward task.
Although both scientists made remarkable contributions to paleontology,
their acrimonious feud and the subsequent financial and reputational
setbacks took a toll on both individuals. Both Cope and Marsh achieved
groundbreaking discoveries and cataloged numerous new species of
dinosaurs and other ancient creatures, significantly propelling the field of
paleontology in America. However, if we were to account for the personal
and professional aftermath, neither Cope nor Marsh could be designated as a
clear "winner" in the conventional sense. Both men faced financial ruin,
tarnished reputations, and endured personal hardships. Cope, for instance,
passed away nearly destitute and estranged from his family. Marsh, despite
his political maneuvering, also encountered financial difficulties and
concluded his life with limited resources. The rivalry between Cope and
Marsh began with a covert arrangement to divert fossils from a New Jersey
quarry to Marsh's Yale collection, undercutting Cope's endeavors. Cope
committed a crucial reconstruction error with Elasmosaurus platyurus, which
Marsh pointed out, subjecting Cope to severe embarrassment. As both
scientists raced to discover and publish new species, the rivalry intensified.
Cope employed a method known as "taxonomic carpet-bombing," while
Marsh ascended to the position of chief paleontologist at the United States
Geological Survey in 1882. Marsh's strategic moves isolated Cope,
preventing him from accessing crucial government funds. In an attempt to
recoup his losses, Cope invested in a silver mining operation, which led to a
financial catastrophe. Cope exposed Marsh's alleged misconduct and
mismanagement through The New York Herald, causing both their
reputations to suffer. Congress investigated, which resulted in reduced
funding for the US Geological Survey and the removal of Marsh's position and
authority. Ultimately, the consequences devastated Cope as well as Marsh,
as Cope was unable to sell his whole fossil collection and Marsh passed away
in 1899 from illness with only $186 remaining in his bank account ("American
Experience," n.d.). Finally, one could say that paleontology emerged as the
genuine victor of their fight. The Bone Wars sparked an extraordinary
increase in scientific discoveries and fossil collection, dramatically expanding
our understanding of prehistoric life. Cope and Marsh's enormous and high-
