"In the period 1880 to 1940, the blue crab fisheries of Chesapeake Bay evolved from a relatively small industry to one having a significant economic impact on watermen, processors and shippers, and the coastal communities, and the need for studied legislation and administration of the industry. The growth of the fishery resulted also in a need for well thought out science based on legislation and administration of the fishery. This text examines whether any of several variables had effects on the stocks and the successes or failures of the fisheries, with the aim of more informed planning of scientific studies, and recommendations to administrators"--Preface.