Thomas Green Clemson (1807-1888), the founder of Clemson University in Clemson, SC, was no ordinary man. He was, in fact, as unique as he was highly educated, skilled, pragmatic, visionary, and complex. To introduce us to this man, fifteen scholars and specialists of history, science, agriculture, engineering, music, art, diplomacy, law, and communications come together to address Clemson's multifaceted life, the century and issues that helped shape him, and his ongoing influence today.