Product Description

Sailing the tide of a tumultuous era of Atlantic revolutions, a remarkable group of African-born and African-descended individuals transformed themselves from slaves into active agents of their lives and times. Big Prince Whitten, the black Seminole Abraham, and General Georges Biassou were “Atlantic creoles,” Africans who found their way to freedom by actively engaging in the most important political events of their day. These men and women of diverse ethnic backgrounds, who were fluent in multiple languages and familiar with African, American, and European cultures, migrated across the new world’s imperial boundaries in search of freedom and a safe haven. Yet, until now, their extraordinary lives and exploits have been hidden from posterity.

Through prodigious archival research, Jane Landers radically alters our vision of the breadth and extent of the Age of Revolution, and our understanding of its actors. Whereas Africans in the Atlantic world are traditionally seen as destined for the slave market and plantation labor, Landers reconstructs the lives of unique individuals who managed to move purposefully through French, Spanish, and English colonies, and through Indian territory, in the unstable century between 1750 and 1850. Mobile and adaptive, they shifted allegiances and identities depending on which political leader or program offered the greatest possibility for freedom. Whether fighting for the King of Kongo, England, France, or Spain, or for the Muskogee and Seminole chiefs, their thirst for freedom helped to shape the course of the Atlantic revolutions and to enrich the history of revolutionary lives in all times.

Product Description
In this groundbreaking analysis, Gruber undertakes to analyze which among over nine hundred books on war were considered most important by British officers and how those books might have affected the army from one era to another. By examining the preferences of some forty-two officers who served between the War of the Spanish Succession and the French Revolution, Gruber shows that by the mid-eighteenth century British officers were discriminating in their choices of books on war and that their emerging preference for Continental books affected their understanding of warfare and their conduct of operations in the American Revolution. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (10)

Forgotten Allies
This book makes you wonder why the importance of the Iroquois federation to American history is so little known. Essentially, it tells how the Oneidas stood apart from the other tribes to support the American rebels out of distrust of the British. In effect, it's the other side of "Drums Along the Mohawk." The author compellingly interweaves anecdote and overviews for a clear view of the events and the individuals shaping them.

Revisionist and non objective
As a Native of Rome, NY in Oneida County NY.I know this subject.I am also a Rev war reenactor who is a descendant from Battle of Oriskany militiamen.This book is an attempt to exaggerate the impact of the Oneida's in our War of Independence.The Oneida's were "little brothers" in the Iroquois Confederacy.They were NOT a large tribe, or influential one either.Estimates were they were only 300-500 in the tribe at any one time.The Oneidas due to war, disease, etc. were too few to have an impact during our struggle with Britain.The only contribution that was meaningful was as scouts for Gen Nicholas Herkimer and his 800 Tryon County militia at the Battle of Oriskany 6 Aug 1777.They were the "scouts" who couldn't detect Brant and the British lying in ambush.This book perpetuates the myth that the Oneidas were allies and contributed to our independence.PURE NONSENSE.The Oneida's weren't our allies per say.They played both sides for personal gain.They were far more concerned with the Cayuga's, Mohawks and Seneca's wrath, than siding with us.Yes, some Oneida's fough with us but no more than 60 warriors.The Mohawks after the Seige of Fort Schuyler (Stanwix) destroyed a couple of Oneida villages in retribution.In closing this book is a biased look at 200+ years of Oneida propoganda for their own purposes.Chiefly a bogus land claim to 250,000 acres in Central NY and to expand their Casino "empire".The Oneidas due to casino revenues are trying to re-write history with cash.The author though well intentioned, has fallen prey to the Oneida propoganda.

History at its Best
In this highly researched and original monograph, Glatthaar and Martin expand the historical memory and provide agency to Native-Americans. This is both a revisionist work and an "expansionist" work, so to speak. Even more this is truly a perspective of the Revolution from the Oneida point-of-view: Typical events one reads about in Revolutionary histories are absent or serve as backdrops to another relevant perspective. The Oneida culture and political systems are also discussed. Furthermore, this book is accessible to general readers and scholars. Forgotten Allies has even caught the attention of movie producers.

Redressing...Historical Omission...With Jewels From Beneath The Waters...
Redressing the contemptuous injustices of historical omission;


With jewels from beneath the waters, with coral and mother of pearl and the pelt of the beaver, with these I do thee wed, America.

A like institution of fidelity was gifted to the birth of our new form of government by a faithful people who have betimes named George Washington `the Great Father' & 'the Great Chief Warrior',while he yet struggled to gain victory against the madness of the British King George.

Yet the Oneida' who sacrificed life and land and kinship against pro-British Iroquois nations did also decline their rightful citizenship and voting privileges of this great experiment in democracy (with all their Iroquois kindred) so that they might more ably re-forge their union within the sovereign nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. A most rare nobility is the faithfulness of the Oneida Iroquois, `the People of the Standing Stone.'

An exhaustive bibliography of this book does bear upon the quality of it's prose. The historical account introduces a chronological narrative of several geographic and cultural topographies. If you will invest the time (I made multiple installments) these authors will transport your attentions between various Indian settlements and migrations and military encampments, between British loyalist' and Rebel Patriot colonial forts and settlements and marches, between political and religious doctrinal conflicts amongst the Iroquois.

'Forgotten Allies' does not elaborate how trading alliances which formed between alternate Iroquois nations and competing European trading partners contributed to Iroquois internal strife and political bias building up during the 'Beaver wars'.

During that time, various tribes formed favorable trade relations with the French, the English, or the Dutch to the exclusion of those interests held by their fellow federation nation tribes.

The term 'Beaver Wars' is derived from the Iroquois hunters and warriors subduing surrounding native populations and dominating the hunting/trapping interest in those territories for the monopolistic benefits of being the primary supplier of beaver pelts to the European traders. The Confederacy at large sought to retain neutrality when the colonial interests were making war in Europe and on our fair soil.
For their part the Europeans increased their mercenary stipend to the individual Indian nations they were accustomed to trading with. These flowers of evil were the beginnings of political division amongst the Iroquois. And where that story leaves off is where `Forgotten Allies' begins.

Being introduced by this text to the uncovered role of a schism in Christian doctrine between those who supported the Rebel/Patriot cause and those who supported King George's loyalists is no little enigma; it's amazing the authors found so much reference material to treat it. The tip of the theological `ice berg' so to say, would intone that the Anglican/Church of England which was favoring the crown and whose emphasis was after the manner of Catholicism, is treated as a view of `salvation by good works'; while the Presbyterian opposition view which was held by those in support of the Patriot/Rebel cause is treated as reformation theology in origin. This mere thumbnail sketch is difficult to connect in my mind with traditions of a people whose cultural memories remember taking shelter in caves to escape the `ice storms' and the `ice age' giant beasts.

According to Tuscarora Chief Elias Johnson,

(Legends, Traditions And Laws of the Iroquois Or Six Nations And History Of The Tuscarora Indians) (published by Kessinger Reprints)
Legends, Traditions, and Laws of the Iroquois, or Six Nations, and History of the Tuscarora Indians

the tribal traditions recollect a time when Hiawatha (or Taryenyawagon) came down from the star people to lead the six families out of the caves to their ancestral lands when it was once again safe to hunt. This isn't part of the narrative from Martin & Galatthaar, but it's a great conundrum to reconcile when presented with the report that some of these Natives were highly esteemed for their Christian piety (ie. religious loyalty) and their `polite civilisation'. And both those who were English conversant Christian and those who were unable to turn their backs on the old ways were (most of them) resolute in their reconciliation to one another after England signed the Armistice at Paris, Sept. 3rd, 1783.

Although ending the fighting between England and Colonies, by this treaty the British ceded territory to the United States which was not theirs to give, namely the Iroquois homelands, creating issues for the Iroquois to later resolve with the Continental Congress. The shrewd political mind of the Iroquois was aware of the dissimulation from their British allies, one anecdote recounts:

"Attempting to save face with their Iroquois allies, local British commanders told them that `they must not go to war as the King had compassion on his American subjects they having expressed their sorrow for what they had done'."

[in response to this]

"A Seneca Sachem dismissed this commentary as pure nonsense. He observed that `the Americans and French had beat the English[,] that the latter could no longer carry on the war, and that the Indians knew it well & must now be sacrificed or submit to the Americans.' He thought `it was time to attend to their own concerns and listen no longer to...lies'." (p286)

If you're curious about the military assistance recieved from American Natives then you won't be disappointed with this read. Keeping as it's theme a goal of `revealing an *un-told* side of the story', the preponderance of researched material is synthesized to introduce the many Native & European characters extracted from references. These characters' names are well indexed to a heavily annotated text full of concise quotations. It should be borne in mind that the primary subject is war, with all the gravity and reverence attaching to this topic.

I purchased `Forgotten Allies' by Joseph T. Glatthaar & James Kirby Martin from Amazon last year (2007), because some branches of my ancestry include Native American Indian Scouts from the American Revolution and the Civil War whose spoken languages were (respectively of each conflict) Iroquois (eastern) and Athalpascan (western). I am motivated to understand what & why they did what they did, and perhaps discover the intersection of truth with family tradition. The title, `Allies' describes precisely `why' my ancestors claim to have survived the foregoing conflicts.

If you desire a comprehensive description of the traditions and spirituality of the Iroquois Nations, then you're probably looking for the work of Tuscarora Chief Elias Johnson, because such accounts differ from one tribe to the next, and his volume includes details which enlighten some of the relationships involved, as well as early transcriptions of ancient names, first rendered when the missionaries delivered a written form of script to these people. You might even understand the communicative nature of the `Wampum' belts to the social justice of the Iroquois.

The well achieved aim of `Forgotten Allies' concerns itself principally with the sacrifice made by the Oneida' and Tuscarora', two Iroquois Nations who were officially aligned with the Rebel/Patriot cause, establishing them as representatives in good standing of the Iroquois Confederacy en masse.

They were right to expect a more preferential consideration in treating with the Continental Congress (that of benefactors to the U.S. Government), in that process which ultimately developed a treaty entitlement for all Iroquois, the `treaty of Canaandaigua'.

This `crown jewel' of Native American political negotiation leveraged the U.S. Government to rescind dis-favorable treaty conditions which had been erroneously adopted by a former `Walking Purchase' agreement.
As a chapter in U.S. history leading up to what became one of the best negotiated and enforced of many poorly attended treaties in Native American relations with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, these testimonies are overdue for remembrance.The struggle for acknowledgement of wrongful land concessions remains an ongoing legal matter. Even in our day, Supreme Court decisions Oneida I & Oneida II from 1974 & 1985 have been secured amidst ever mounting antagonism from both county level bureaucrats and New York state officials.

From Martin and Glatthaar's book,

"For the most part, the Continental Congress expressed interest in the well being of the Oneidas and attempted to treat it's wartime allies with respect.by comparison, local citizens and their leaders in New York viewed the Oneidas mostly as an annoyance and an impediment.Once the war ended, they began devising ways to force the People of the Standing Stone from their traditional homeland."

Our parts in the story must all come and go with the telling; but the story will go on.(This review is based on the hard cover edition)

Great Service
Very fast and reliable. Book in excellent condition. Received notices through process of ordering, shipping etc.
... Read more

Product Description
An expanded edition of one of the most original and provocative works of American history of the last decade, which documents the pioneering experiences and grit of American frontier women. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Absolutely stunning collection of journal entries.
The stark simplicity of diary entries, written by pioneer women and edited by Lillian Schlissel, is breathtaking.I can't imagine how these ladies (and ladies they were!) survived such an ordeal:hard work, physical discomfort, frequent illness, injury and even death, often scanty food and water.Imagine, being so overwhelmed with endless chores that you lose track of one or more of your own children!Unfortunately, it happened, and the little ones didn't always get found again.

Schlissel fills in some of the omissions in the stories of the prim and proper Victorian ladies:how did they deal with things like childbirth, periods, or relieving oneself when there wasn't a privy to be had for hundreds of miles?These are the kinds of things they don't teach you in history classes.

For some of the diarists, going West was a marvelous adventure. For others, it was an ordeal they had to endure because their husbands or fathers wanted to go, and the women did not feel they had any other choice.This book is a marvelous window into the thoughts and feelings of our pioneer fore-mothers.The journal entries, combined with photographs from this period, make for a fascinating read.

Insightful
This book is a true account about the struggles, and hardships of the pioneer womans journey to the west.

I didn't realize, untill i read this book, how strong the woman of that time were.We take so much for granted today with all our modern conveniences, that even pouring a glass of water back then was not an easy task.

Its was also interesting to learn that, alot of todays modern conveniences were thought up by these woman and improved on over time, they say neeccesity is the mother of invention, and thats a lesson well learned by these woman.

Lori Ann Libby
author of
The Adventures of Henry hamper and the Flying Fish

Amazing insight for women today
I thought this book was invaluable in giving today's women a glimpse into the lives of women who helped build our country. I wonder how many of us today would be up to the challenge of what they accomplished in spite of physical (long skirts, pregnancy, etc.) and cultural (he's in charge) limitations. One of the other reviewers noted that the book was dry due to lack of emotional content. Even women as recent as my mother's generation were less focused on how they were feeling about things as opposed to getting done what had to be done. Although we know now that self-expression is a healthy practice, I suspect that it was a luxury when crossing an untamed continent. I also can't help but wonder if the diaries of these women were really meant more as an account of household activity rather than a true diary. We'll never know. I for one am glad to have had the opportunity to share their experiences in this small and safe way.

?
Excellent history of life on the Oregon Trail, circa 1850-1860, mostly from women's viewpoints, as no diaries kept by men have been found.The excerts from the diaries and their arrangement are excellent.You can't help but admire how accepting and stoic the women were in the face of hardships and deprivations that were beyond the imagination of people of today.Even pregnancies were not mentioned in the diaries, only an entry on the day of birth.The expansion of the book to include historical references and data was very enlightening.

no title
Utterly fascinating account of women's views of the overland crossing.God! how hard they worked, how many children they were always having, how tired and strong and enduring they were.They did not seem close to their husbands at all, but lived in a world surrounded by their children, sisters, mothers, and/or other females.How they found the time (or light) to write is amazing.Very few complaints.Journey of 2,500 miles! by walking, wagon, or horse. ... Read more

Product Description
The tall tales that parade as historical facts.

Did you know that:

• The legend of Paul Revere's Ride was invented by a poet in 1861, eighty-six years after the fact?
• Thomas Jefferson was not seen as the architect of American equality until Abraham Lincoln assigned him that role four score and seven years later?
• Molly Pitcher, the revolutionary heroine whose picture adorns current textbooks, is a complete fabrication?

In Founding Myths, noted author and historian Ray Raphael examines thirteen well-known tales of America's struggle for independence whose authenticity has been disproved by recent scholarship. Strangely out of sync with both the communitarian ideals of revolutionary America and the democratic values of today, these stories of America's creation reflect instead the romantic individualism of the nineteenth century, when most of them were created. Despite their narrative appeal, Raphael argues, they sell the U.S. short. Only by laying these myths bare can we understand and appreciate the popular spirit that propelled America to independence.

A provocative revision of America's birth, Founding Myths redefines the roots of U.S. patriotism. 15 black-and-white photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

FOUNDING MYTHS
Very good and quick transaction.Book arrived promptly in the condition advertised.The last half of the book itself was a little too much like a text book for my liking.

Excellent book for indepth review of the Founding Fatheres
Thank you for this book it takes away many preconceived notions and old established stories of the Revolutionary War. Gets into the grit of the founding of thus country. Much different than you have been lead to believe.

Nothing Revolutionary
This is not so much the debunking of myths, but the debunking of the current dumbed-down version of history as taught by our contemporary school system. A serious student of history will not learn much, but perhaps it may serve to open some oportunities for the reader to do further study and to pursue a more in depth knowledge of history.

The subtitle is the key to this book.
This book is subtitled "Stories That Hide our Patriotic Past", which is an important theme of the book. The author contends that the myths that have been created about the Revolutionary War and its heroes obscure the real story and overshadow the important contributions of countless unsung patriots.Unfortunately, some chapters do degenerate into a populist, left leaning, screed that has prompted some reviewers to trash this book.However, on balance, I found the information provided far outweighed the chapters that degenerated into a screed.The author is careful to document when and why these myths were created and how they have been incorporated into textbooks and how this incorporation has changed over time.I found this documentation to be very important, since without it the author might just be substituting one myth for another.

Some of the myths are well known to be myths, with little or no historical foundation.The story of Molly Pitcher and that of young George Washington chopping down the cherry tree fall into this category.Other stories are not myths ser se, but rather are simplifications that distort the actual historical fact.The idea that the Revolutionary War ended with the victory at Yorktown is an example of this type of"myth".Fighting continued after this battle, and ten times more American soldiers died after Yorktown than died in the battle itself.A good history points out that the peace treaty was not arrived at until September of 1783, 25 months after the victory at Yorktown, but the fighting during these 25 months (a civil war in the Southern Colonies/States between Patriots and American Loyalists) is often overlooked. The civil war aspects of the war are often replaced by the myth of solidarity of the colonists against Britain.The book also discusses, in some detail, the world-wide character of the war and that in many respects the fighting in India and a possible invasion of Britain by France and Holland was much more important than the war in America.

The author tries to dispel the myth that Samuel Adams single handedly directed the people of Massachusetts to rebel.His theses is not only that is this not the case, but it obscures the fact that in 1774, in response to the Massachusetts Government act (which deprived the locally elected governments of most of their powers and prevented people from gathering in town meetings without the approval of British appointees)thousands of farmers and tradesmen, independent of Adams, moved to oust these British appointees.Not only did Adams not direct these actions, he disapproved of them. Thus, the myth of the importance of one man obscured the much more important actions of thousands.The author also tackles the idea that Jefferson single-handedly created the idea of Independence.There is a side-by-side comparison of George Mason's Virginia Declaration of Rights and the Declaration of Independence, showing that Jefferson just put Mason's ideas in a much more poetic format.Furthermore, many of the delegates came to Philadelphia with instructions to vote for independence and did not need Jefferson's prodding to do so.Also, the idea of July 4th being the important (mythic) date is shown to be somewhat of a simplification.The important thing was the ratification of the declaration by the individual colonies, which was not completed for 19 more days.The bulk of the signings by individuals did not occur until August (and in a few cases much later) and that some of these signers were not even at the convention.Again the point is not that July 4th is not important, but the choosing of a somewhat arbitrary date makes the history easier to tell, but obscures the fact that it was the individual colonial legislatures that declared independence, not just a group of 56 signers.

Some the most controversial aspects of the book are the chapters discussing the participation of Indians and slaves in the war and how they faired after the war was over.These chapters are important, but offend many because of what is easily perceived as a left-wing anti-US bias.While I agreed with some of what the author was trying to say, I felt that he was guilty of some of the same simplifications that he rails against.

I would recommend this book to those who are interested in a more nuanced presentation of the Revolutionary War and those who have been designated as its heroes.For some, however, pointing out that some of their most cherished ideas are little more that myths will be unsetting.

Please note - The paperback edition of this book is published by New Press, and Amazon lists it as being 368 pages long versus a length of 352 pages for this edition.To confuse things a bit more, Amazon lists this edition as being only 331 pages long, which is incorrect.

Pay attention to the subtitle.
This book is subtitled "Stories That Hide our Patriotic Past", which is an important theme of the book. The author contends that the myths that have been created about the Revolutionary War and its heroes obscure the real story and overshadow the important contributions of countless unsung patriots.Unfortunately, some chapters do degenerate into a populist, left leaning, screed that has prompted some reviewers to trash this book.However, on balance, I found the information provided far outweighed the chapters that degenerated into a screed.The author is careful to document when and why these myths were created and how they have been incorporated into textbooks and how this incorporation has changed over time.I found this documentation to be very important, since without it the author might just be substituting one myth for another.

Some of the myths are well known to be myths, with little or no historical foundation.The story of Molly Pitcher and that of young George Washington chopping down the cherry tree fall into this category.Other stories are not myths ser se, but rather are simplifications that distort the actual historical fact.The idea that the Revolutionary War ended with the victory at Yorktown is an example of this type of"myth".Fighting continued after this battle, and ten times more American soldiers died after Yorktown than died in the battle itself.A good history points out that the peace treaty was not arrived at until September of 1783, 25 months after the victory at Yorktown, but the fighting during these 25 months (a civil war in the Southern Colonies/States between Patriots and American Loyalists) is often overlooked. The civil war aspects of the war are often replaced by the myth of solidarity of the colonists against Britain.The book also discusses, in some detail, the world-wide character of the war and that in many respects the fighting in India and a possible invasion of Britain by France and Holland was much more important than the war in America.

The author tries to dispel the myth that Samuel Adams single handedly directed the people of Massachusetts to rebel.His theses is not only that is this not the case, but it obscures the fact that in 1774, in response to the Massachusetts Government act (which deprived the locally elected governments of most of their powers and prevented people from gathering in town meetings without the approval of British appointees)thousands of farmers and tradesmen, independent of Adams, moved to oust these British appointees.Not only did Adams not direct these actions, he disapproved of them. Thus, the myth of the importance of one man obscured the much more important actions of thousands.The author also tackles the idea that Jefferson single-handedly created the idea of Independence.There is a side-by-side comparison of George Mason's Virginia Declaration of Rights and the Declaration of Independence, showing that Jefferson just put Mason's ideas in a much more poetic format.Furthermore, many of the delegates came to Philadelphia with instructions to vote for independence and did not need Jefferson's prodding to do so.Also, the idea of July 4th being the important (mythic) date is shown to be somewhat of a simplification.The important thing was the ratification of the declaration by the individual colonies, which was not completed for 19 more days.The bulk of the signings by individuals did not occur until August (and in a few cases much later) and that some of these signers were not even at the convention.Again the point is not that July 4th is not important, but the choosing of a somewhat arbitrary date makes the history easier to tell, but obscures the fact that it was the individual colonial legislatures that declared independence, not just a group of 56 signers.

Some the most controversial aspects of the book are the chapters discussing the participation of Indians and slaves in the war and how they faired after the war was over.These chapters are important, but offend many because of what is easily perceived as a left-wing anti-US bias.While I agreed with some of what the author was trying to say, I felt that he was guilty of some of the same simplifications that he rails against.

I would recommend this book to those who are interested in a more nuanced presentation of the Revolutionary War and those who have been designated as its heroes.For some, however, pointing out that some of their most cherished ideas are little more than myths will be unsettling.

... Read more

Product Description
Jefferson-s chronicle of the natural, social, and political history of Virginia is at once a scientific discourse, an attempt to define America, and a brilliant examination of the idea of freedom. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Notes on the state of Virginia
This is a little dryer than I thought it would be. Very factual and less personal. I did find information about the incident I was interested in so was worth my purchase.

Notes on the State of Virginia
Jefferson's (my hero) only published book gave me yet another insight into the Monticello....thanks for the very old book's copy!

This was obviously never proofread.
The text of the 10.55 paperback edition is nearly illegible. Some pages are entirely in computer code, and there are countless severe typographical errors on every page. If you have any intention of reading this text, do not buy the copy pictured on the product page.

Notes on the State of Virginia
I never received this book !

Notes on the State of Virginia (Penguin Classics) (Purchased on 04/24/2009)

Caveat Emptor
This is a comment on the quality of the binding...not the content of the book (which I haven't read).I ordered this as a gift and specifically chose the "hardbound" copy instead of the "paperback" because it was a gift and I assumed at the price ($63.96) that it would be beautifully bound and keepsake quality.I was nothing less than shocked to receive a small book bound in the manner of children's books.(For those familiar with Nancy Drew books, it's about that size with that type of binding...thin plastic over cardboard and no dust jacket.)I am returning this and ordering the paperback version and using the remaining $50 to buy another gift to go along with it. ... Read more

Product Description

An Interview with the Author on the History News Network

Customer Reviews (3)

Standing for Right
I truly love this book; not because I am a member of the AME Church but because this book offers the reader a sense of pride in who they are and perhaps who they would like to become.It recognizes that Richar Allen and Absalom Jones and many others were definitely businessmen of the highest degree.They knew how to start, conduct, and maintain their own endeavors.They also knew how to work with people of all cultures and suggested to others that this is what should be done.They stood up for what was right and did not mind writing rebuttals to articles and/or statements they felt were unfair. They encouraged others to disagree in writing.This is still a good philosophy today.

A Great Founding Father
Surprisingly, despite Richard Allen's towering achievements, no modern biography of his life and work existed before Richard Newman's current work. Newman's detailed research and captivating style fills this void admirably. As suggested by the subtitle (Bishop Richard Allen, the AME Church, and the Black Founding Fathers), Newman's biography of Allen is in many ways also a biography of a race as a lived experience in the early American republic. The engaging account of the establishment of the first black church and the first black denomination are worth the proverbial price of the book.

One caveat, the title of chapter six, A Liberating Theology, should not cause readers to assume that Rev. Richard Allen preached liberation theology. As evidenced by The Doctrines and Discipline of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which mimicked the ideals of Wesley's Methodist Church, Allen's theology maintained the basic doctrinal principles of conservative Methodism. Allen's liberating theology highlighted the equality of all people as image bearers, the conversion experienced based upon faith in Christ alone, the importance of progressive sanctification, and the call to outreach--doing works of service.

For a lively portrayal of one of America's great founding fathers, of any race, Freedom's Prophet is the book of choice.

Reviewer: Robert W. Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction.

The Definitive Biography of a Black Founding Father
Who was Richard Allen? Among other things, he was the founder of the AfricanMethodist Episcopal Church, first black author to be granted federal copyright and spiritual leader of early black America.

Richard Newman has delivered a compelling account of Allen's ascension to leadership, his symbolic representation of black religion and his personal sacrifice to the cause of justice. Through humanizing anecdote, well crafted prose and lucid analysis, this book has succeeded in its goals:

1.) The story keeps coming back to the meaning of black leadership through the lens of Richard Allen's work."Black prophetic leadership has historically critiqued American glorification in favor of a broader vision of national salvation." (Newman, 297)With this in mind, Newman observes that Allen uses his faith, the print press, and access to power in the nations capital to achieve his goals--or more specifically God's goals.Newman takes care to avoid reducing Allen's faith to ideology.The suggestion that Allen inaugurates a tradition of abolitionism in the media is quite powerful adding layers to Allen's image as a black founding father.

2.) Allen is something of an untarnished historical figure.Newman makes it clear that many found Allen to be overbearing, and annoyingly persistent as an individual.Not to mitigate his historical importance, but to shed light on personal characteristics.

3.) Newman's treatment of the 1793 Yellow Fever Epidemic with respect to Richard Allen's leadership is a brilliant description of an understudied and underappreciated, but defining moment in American history. ... Read more

Product Description
Today we hold the Constitution in such high regard that we can hardly imagine how hotly contested was its adoption. In fact, many of the thirteen states saw fierce debate over the document, and ratification was by no means certain. Virginia, the largest and most influential state, approved the Constitution by the barest of margins, and only after an epic political battle between James Madison and Patrick Henry. Now Richard Labunski offers a dramatic account of a time when the entire American experiment hung in the balance, only to be saved by the most unlikely of heroes--the diminutive and exceedingly shy Madison.- Here is a vividly written account of not one but several major political struggles which changed the course of American history. Labunski takes us inside the sweltering converted theater in Richmond, where for three grueling weeks, the soft-spoken Madison and the charismatic Patrick Henry fought over whether Virginia should ratify the Constitution. The stakes were enormous.- If Virginia voted no, George Washington could not become president, New York might follow suit and reject the Constitution, and the young nation would be thrust into political chaos. But Madison won the day by a handful of votes, mollifying Anti-Federalist fears by promising to add a bill of rights to the Constitution. To do this, Madison would have to win a seat in the First Congress. Labunski shows how the vengeful Henry prevented Madison's appointment to the Senate and then used his political power to ensure that Madison would run against his good friend, Revolutionary War hero James Monroe, in a House district teeming with political enemies. Overcoming great odds, Madison won by a few hundred votes, allowing him to attend the First Congress and sponsor the Bill of Rights. Packed with colorful details about life in early America, this compelling and important narrative is the first serious book about Madison written in many years. It will return this under-appreciated patriot to his rightful place among the Founding Fathers and shed new light on a key turning point in our nation's history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

James Madison and the Struggle for the Bill of Rights
Although I am an amateur student of this period in American History, I was not familiar with the events described in this book.Therefore I found the book most enlightening.The details of the Virginia ratification convention offer important insights into the founding of the United States.The insights into the character of James Madison ware very informative.The book was very well written as well.

Good read; 3 1/2 stars
This book is popular history for sure, and I think it may have been better (albeit less commercially successful) if it had been a bit more analytical and geared toward a different audience.

Labunski writes a narrative that revolves around James Madison's role in the constitution and Bill of Rights from pre-Constitutional Convention to ratification of the 10 amendments. It's a fairly short book, yet it's still filled with quite a bit of filler, such as Madison's physical ailments and 18th-century travel difficulties (these are interesting windows into that time period, but don't advance his narrative in most cases).

The positive: The book is very easy to read, even if he gets off topic on occasion. I was especially interested in Virginia's debates over the constitution and later the amendments, and I learned some things there. It covered some areas that aren't prominently dealt with in most overviews of the period.

The negative: I think Labunski spends insufficient time on the issues in Virginia. Less than half of this book actually pertains to the attempt to get a Bill of Rights. Labunski spends a lot of time on the Philadelphia convention, the states' conventions to ratify the constitution and Madison's run for Congress. I wish those topics had been dealt with quicker and more time spent on analyzing why the amendments were so important to people and so unpopular with certain legislators. He addresses these issues, but he generally sticks to quoting letters and debates rather than delving into the "why."

I'm glad I read the book; I just wish the contents fit the title more than they did.

An up-close view of ratification
The best take-aways from the book are that [1:] the Constitution didn't just happen and that [2:] the Bill of Rights certainly didn't just happen. The worst involve Labunski's fixation on 18th Century travel, James Madison's weak speaking voice, and Madison's problems with his bowels. Labunski begins with the dissolution of the Articles of Confederation as the representatives sent to amend that ailing document end up concocting an entirely new Constitution. Calls for amendments to the Constitution arose immediately and continued through the ratification process.

Labunski traces the major arguments surrounding the Constitution and potential amendments. He highlights the philosophical positions of major characters such as Madison, Patrick Henry, James Monroe, and Edmund Randolph. Labunski views Virginia as the hotspot for ratification controversy, so most of the book is dedicated to Virginia and Virginians.

"James Madison and the Struggle..." plods along slowly, gets repetitive, and begins to feel like a dull civics lecture. It does capture the ideas and political machinations of the era, however, and present plenty of good information. Ultimately it demonstrates that the acceptance of the Constitution and Bill of Rights were not foregone conclusions or inevitable events.

The Iconic Bill of Rights
The book is an amazing expose of the struggle to establish our iconic and cherished Bill of Rights. It is amazing for a couple of reasons; to most people it is amazing that Madison was the dominant initiate not only the Constitution but the Bill of rights as well; additonal amazement comes when it is realized that he had such a hard time getting the Bill of rights from Congress out to the People. The author does an excellent job of detailing the discussions, without over using quotations and documents of the time. In so doing he grants to the average American an insight into the sources and principles Madison sought to achieve. Linking the Ratifying Conventions of the Constitution to the document is of paramount importance to a more comprehensive knowledge of the Founding Era, for it was the objections of the Ratifying Conventions to a latitudinous interpretation of the Constitution that inspired the very desire for the Bill of Rights to begin with.

The book motivated me to examine the Preamble of the Bill of Rights that was forwarded to the States which included the following:

THE Conventions of a number of the States, having at the time of their adopting the Constitution, expressed a desire, in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers, that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best ensure the beneficent ends of its institution.

The fear of a misconstruction, or an innacurate interpretation kept some who ratified waiting further assurances, hence the Amendmendments proposed by Madison. As the wording of the Amendments changed going through the committees of the House and The Senate, during the Ratification of the Amendments some were disappointed that, what we would come to know as the Ninth and Tenth Amendments, were not more explicit exegetical tools. Over the years Madison constantly responded in the following fashion,

"If a line can be drawn between the powers granted and the rights retained, it would seem to be the same thing whether the latter be secured by declaring that they shall not be abridged, or that the former shall not be extended.''

The book certainly helps in developing a larger consciousness of what the Amendments meant but also how the Constitution was originally meant to interpreted apparently through the Ninth And Tenth Amendment,

Madison's Constitution
This book starts out slowly, then starts to get better as it goes on, all in a rather dry (but no too dry) scholarly, yet popular tone.It provides a fairly detailed biography of James Madison from the end of the constitutional convention until the ratification of the Bill of Rights. An alternate subtitle could have just as well been "Madison vs. Henry", for Patrick Henry is set up as James Madison's persistent foil.The actual title is somewhat of a misnomer, for the battle over the Bill of Rights is given coverage as a second (and smaller) act, after the initial act of ratification of the constitution.As with many historical accounts, this book suffers from the availability of sources.Some well documented debates are given detailed coverage, while others without much historical record are barely passed over.This creates an illusion (however unfair) of mistaken significance of one event over the other.Though the focus is on Madison, there is very little attention given to events outside the "constitutional period."By a corollary, the book gives the impression that Madison was almost single-handedly responsible for dreaming up the constitution and driving its ratification.Aside from these shortcomings, it remains an interest take on the trials that had to be surmounted to give rise to the birth of the United States. ... Read more

Product Description

In Founding Mothers, Cokie Roberts paid homage to the heroic women whose patriotism and sacrifice helped create a new nation. Now the number one New York Times bestselling author and renowned political commentator—praised in USA Today as a "custodian of time-honored values"—continues the story of early America's influential women with Ladies of Liberty. In her "delightfully intimate and confiding" style (Publishers Weekly), Roberts presents a colorful blend of biographical portraits and behind-the-scenes vignettes chronicling women's public roles and private responsibilities.

Recounted with the insight and humor of an expert storyteller and drawing on personal correspondence, private journals, and other primary sources—many of them previously unpublished—Roberts brings to life the extraordinary accomplishments of women who laid the groundwork for a better society. Almost every quotation here is written by a woman, to a woman, or about a woman. From first ladies to freethinkers, educators to explorers, this exceptional group includes Abigail Adams, Margaret Bayard Smith, Martha Jefferson, Dolley Madison, Elizabeth Monroe, Louisa Catherine Adams, Eliza Hamilton, Theodosia Burr, Rebecca Gratz, Louisa Livingston, Rosalie Calvert, Sacajawea, and others. In a much-needed addition to the shelves of Founding Father literature, Roberts sheds new light on the generation of heroines, reformers, and visionaries who helped shape our nation, giving these ladies of liberty the recognition they so greatly deserve.

Customer Reviews (41)

Historically Fastinating!
I really liked this book. For those who are not into history, the book might drag a bit, but with the historical facts it probably couldn't be written any other way. There was a lot of historical background to tell, which couldn't be done in a few flash-back chapters. It was interesting to get to know some of the backgrounds of women (with famous husbands) who haven't been thought of or heard of - ever. These women had grit! The book (as it was intended) was a strong reminder of the important role women have been playing in history...some of these women we've hardly known of until Ms. Roberts introduces them to us in Ladies of Liberty (another great title, by the way). I would have loved to meet these women...the stories they'd have to tell would be fascinating. Good job! The same goes for "Founding Mothers."

Cynthia Briggs, Cookbook Author
Sweet Apple Temptations
Pork Chops and Applesauce: A Collection of Recipes and Reflections

For the most part, I liked it...
And it may just be a personal preference but I could have done without the author's comments sprinkled rather heavily throughout the book. She inserts her opinions and observations far too often for me, and nothing turns me off in any book more than exclamation points, in my opinion they are never needed. The reader should be able to determine if a phrase or statement is important, ironic, etc. on their own.

That aside, it is a very interesting book about the wives and daughters of the men who fought the British and eventually formed the first government of the US.

Engrossing HERstory
Very well written and engrossing HERstory (and opposed to HIStory) detailing the years following the American Revolution, ending with the election of the first of the non-Revolution generation presidents, John Quincy Adams. Instead of yet another book delving into the relationships between Washington, John Adams, Jefferson, Hamilton, Burr, Madison, Monroe, et al, Roberts uses letters and journals written by their wives, daughters, and other female friends, enemies and relations to shed new light on just how the United States managed to survive once the euphoria of winning independence from England wore off. The women were just as interested, if not more, in the nuts and bolts of "now what?" And their contributions to the country's continued survival, if somewhat overlooked when the myth of American creation is told over fireworks on 4th of July, is just as vital.

My only frustration with the book -and it is a very minor one- is that Cokie Roberts chose to write the book mostly chronologically. Therefore, I'd be entirely caught up in, say, Louisa Catherine Adams' latest tragic pregnancy, wanting to know what happens next, and the book shifts to another female protagonist for her take on the events of the day. I'd find myself skipping ahead to find the next mention of Adams. But as I said, a very minor quibble.

Roberts makes her women come alive, from the well-known (Dolley Madison, Sacajawea, Abigail Adams) to the once celebrated, now somewhat forgotten (Theodosia Burr Alston, Louisa Catherine Adams) to the should be better remembered but aren't (Rosalie Stier Calvert, Betsy Hamilton). Roberts sometimes makes the point overtly, but it's evident from reading the women's own words that marriage, child-rearing, and most of all the world of US politics hasn't really changed much in 200 years. The 21st century has superior medical knowledge and treatment, and much improved transportation and communication infrastructure - but really, that's about it. We still argue with our husbands about how to best educate our kids, have issues with the in-laws, worry about money, and say terrible things about political candidates not of our choice.

I highly recommend the book as a window into early 19th century history (and not just US; the book covers European history as seen through the eyes of the Americans posted abroad) and female studies. Although the women of the day couldn't vote or hold political office (married women couldn't even own property), they played a highly important role in shaping the United States into the country it is today.

Ladies of Liberty
I'm reading this book now...and it could be about the government today...It is very very interesting..."good old days"no way.This is a book I will pass around but intend to keep
The book came quickly and in great condition...

Ladies of Liberty
This should be a must read for all American females.As Harry Truman said, "there is nothing new in the world, except the history you do not know."Little has been written about the important role women played in the development of our country, but Cokie Roberts is changing that.I would recommend reading her "Founding Mothers" as a prelude to this one. ... Read more

Product Description

Thomas Jefferson was an avid book-collector, a voracious reader, and a gifted writer--a man who prided himself on his knowledge of classical and modern languages and whose marginal annotations include quotations from Euripides, Herodotus, and Milton. And yet there has never been a literary life of our most literary president.
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- In The Road to Monticello, Kevin J. Hayes fills this important gap by offering a lively account of Jefferson's spiritual and intellectual development, focusing on the books and ideas that exerted the most profound influence on him. Moving chronologically through Jefferson's life, Hayes reveals the full range and depth of Jefferson's literary passions, from the popular "small books" sold by traveling chapmen, such as The History of Tom Thumb, which enthralled him as a child; to his lifelong love of Aesop's Fables and Robinson Crusoe; his engagement with Horace, Ovid, Virgil and other writers of classical antiquity; and his deep affinity with the melancholy verse of Ossian, the legendary third-century Gaelic warrior-poet. Drawing on Jefferson's letters, journals, and commonplace books, Hayes offers a wealth of new scholarship on the print culture of colonial America, reveals an intimate portrait of Jefferson's activities beyond the political chamber, and reconstructs the president's investigations in such different fields of knowledge as law, history, philosophy and natural science. Most importantly, Hayes uncovers the ideas and exchanges which informed the thinking of America's first great intellectual and shows how his lifelong pursuit of knowledge culminated in the formation of a public offering, the "academic village" which became UVA, and his more private retreat at Monticello.
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- Gracefully written and painstakingly researched, The Road to Monticello provides an invaluable look at Jefferson's intellectual and literary life, uncovering the roots of some of the most important--and influential--ideas that have informed American history.

Customer Reviews (14)

Educational, insightful, and a great read
Originally purchased this book as a gift for a friend who loves TJ. Same day, without knowing that I had gotten it, he purchased it too. I ended up reading the book and absolutely loved it. I became a TJ and a Hayes convert. The book flows well, is very well researched, builds a well rounded TJ, without overly emphasizing his greatness or leaving out his shortcomings, and does all this by integrating TJ's life into the bigger picture of American history.

Inspiring
"The Road to Monticello" is a most enjoyable biography to read, and one that does justice to an incredible man. Enjoyable, because Jefferson's life-long dedication to study and knowledge is truly inspiring, making one realize the importance of self-study in a day and age where it has become almost abnormal to do so. Additionally, the attention to detail in this book is phenomenal. The book does not attempt to do the impossible of encompassing every aspect of Jefferson's life, but the things it does cover, are covered so well that the reader does not need to worry about filling in holes. The attention to detail also makes it a very personal account of Jefferson.

Hayes's writing is sophisticated and the book is well researched, something remarkable provided how many literary works it describes. Often, one gets the feeling that Hayes has truly made new discoveries about Jefferson not found anywhere else. It is an amazing scholarly work.

However, I have to warn people who are looking for a complete biography of Jefferson that this book is not it. I highly recommend it to those wanting to get to know Jefferson more profoundly in terms of what he studied and what mattered to him, or for those simply looking for inspiration from a great man.

Book on books
If all you want to know is what books Jefferson purchased, then this is the book for you.

tghe road to monticello
This is a good book for people who want to read about the books that Jefferson read and had in his library.You would need to read some other book on his life to get the historical perspective.It is well written but I think most readers would think it is extreamly dry.

This one is for the Bibliophiles
One of the most interesting biographies I've ever read. If you're looking for relational or historical details of Thomas Jefferson's life- this is not the book for you. If you have a borderline unhealthy love for books- hit that purchase button.

This book can be summarized on page 564, "The Retirement Library" where Jefferson comments to Adams that "I cannot live without books."

Hayes did an excellent job relating Jefferson's life through the spectrum of books he read- from boyhood until his deathbed. Whether you like Jefferson or not- it is easy to appreciate his thirst for knowledge. Each chapter was perfect in length. Hayes' use of the English language is refreshing- I always enjoy learning plenty of new words.

I actually cried...almost sobbed...in the chapter that his wife died. People seemed much more romantic then...Martha wrote "Time wastes too fast, every letter I trace tells me with what rapidity life follows my pen. The days and hours of it are flying over our heads like clouds of a windy day never to return- more everything presses on." And Jefferson responds, "and every time I kiss thy hand to bid adieu, every absence which follows it, are preludes to that eternal separation which we are shortly to make." ahh, what a good book. ... Read more

Product Description

Cokie Roberts's number one New York Times bestseller, We Are Our Mothers' Daughters, examined the nature of women's roles throughout history and led USA Today to praise her as a "custodian of time-honored values." Her second bestseller, From This Day Forward, written with her husband, Steve Roberts, described American marriages throughout history, including the romance of John and Abigail Adams. Now Roberts returns with Founding Mothers, an intimate and illuminating look at the fervently patriotic and passionate women whose tireless pursuits on behalf of their families -- and their country -- proved just as crucial to the forging of a new nation as the rebellion that established it.

While much has been written about the men who signed the Declaration of Independence, battled the British, and framed the Constitution, the wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters they left behind have been little noticed by history. Roberts brings us the women who fought the Revolution as valiantly as the men, often defending their very doorsteps. While the men went off to war or to Congress, the women managed their businesses, raised their children, provided them with political advice, and made it possible for the men to do what they did. The behind-the-scenes influence of these women -- and their sometimes very public activities -- was intelligent and pervasive.

Drawing upon personal correspondence, private journals, and even favored recipes, Roberts reveals the often surprising stories of these fascinating women, bringing to life the everyday trials and extraordinary triumphs of individuals like Abigail Adams, Mercy Otis Warren, Deborah Read Franklin, Eliza Pinckney, Catherine Littlefield Green, Esther DeBerdt Reed, and Martha Washington -- proving that without our exemplary women, the new country might never have survived.

Social history at its best, Founding Mothers unveils the drive, determination, creative insight, and passion of the other patriots, the women who raised our nation. Roberts proves beyond a doubt that like every generation of American women that has followed, the founding mothers used the unique gifts of their gender -- courage, pluck, sadness, joy, energy, grace, sensitivity, and humor -- to do what women do best, put one foot in front of the other in remarkable circumstances and carry on.

Customer Reviews (82)

Actually between 3 and 4
The book has quite a few interesting bits that I had not been taught in school.I wish there had been a timeline in the margins as the organization was sometimes confusing.I believe now I will read the original with the same title.

Having said that, I am currently reading Mercy Otis Warren's letters. I admire Cokie Roberts greatly for being able to wade through these women's tedious flowery language and find the substance beneath.So I should have given it four stars.

Women with Grit!
I really liked this book. For those who are not into history, the book might drag a bit, but with the historical facts it probably couldn't be written any other way. There was a lot of historical background to tell, which couldn't be done in a few flash-back chapters. It was interesting to get to know some of the backgrounds of women (with famous husbands) who haven't been thought of or heard of - ever. These women had grit! The book (as it was intended) was a strong reminder of the important role women have been playing in history...some of these women we've hardly known of until Ms. Roberts introduces them to us in Founding Mothers (great title, by the way). I would have loved to meet these women...the stories they'd have to tell would be fascinating. Good job! The same goes for "Ladies of Liberty."

Cynthia Briggs, Cookbook Author
Sweet Apple Temptations
Pork Chops and Applesauce: A Collection of Recipes and Reflections

founding mothers
interesting view of history.
roberts style is relaxed, easy to read and imparts education painlessly.

Founding Mothers
The book was in perfect condition.Received it promptly.No complaints.:)

SLUGGISH
I read this book on the advice of others who enjoyed it very much.That may have built my expectations beyond reality.In truth, I found the work mediocre.There were parts that were interesting and insightful, especially about women of whom I had never heard.Much of the book, however, was a recap of political history focused around men.I know that the genders cannot be separated, but in many respects, the direction of the writing seemed to shift away from women.Perhaps there was not enough material available to be more narrow in scope, but the best parts were the snippits of intimate details about the ladies.The prose got bogged down in wordiness that the author tried to lighten by inelegant commentary. ... Read more

Product Description
The history of the Eighty-sixth Illinois was written in part while the regiment was yet in the service, merely for the gratification of a personal desire; but since its muster out, the author has been frequently urged by many of his friends to have it published, that they might share what he alone enjoyed. He complied with an earnest request from Colonel Fahnestock to meet himself, General Magee, Major Thomas, Dr. Guth, Captain Zinser and others at Peoria, to have the manuscript examined before publication. It was met by their hearty approval, and an eager desire on their part to have it published; at the same time giving the assurance that they would lend their whole influence in getting it before the public. For these reasons the author has been induced to present this little volume to his comrades and friends, in the hope that it will receive their hearty welcome.

Download History Of The Eighty Sixth Regiment Now! ... Read more

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Heroes, traitors, and great thinkers come to life in this activity book, and the concepts of freedom and democracy are celebrated in true accounts of the distinguished officers, wise delegates, rugged riflemen, and hardworking farm wives and children who created the new nation. This collection tells the story of the Revolution, from the hated Stamp Act and the Boston Tea Party to the British surrender at Yorktown and the creation of the United States Constitution. All American students are required to study the Revolution and the Constitution, and these 21 activities make it fun and memorable. Kids create a fringed hunting shirt and a tricorn hat and reenact the Battle of Cowpens. They will learn how to make their voices heard in "I Protest" and how Congress works in "There Ought to Be a Law." A final selection including the Declaration of Independence, a glossary, biographies, and pertinent Web sites makes this book a valuable resource for both students and teachers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

American Revolution
Looked at quite a few books in search of one about the American Revolution for my 11-year-old daughter.Finally found this one and it is terrific.It is the perfect combination of informational text, illustration and easy and fun enrichment activities.

EXCELLENT BOOK FOR SCHOOL AGE AND ADULTS
EXCELLENT BOOK: PROVIDED A COPY TO EACH WINNER OF THEMIDDLE SCHOOL DAR GOOD CITIZENSHIP.

Thourogh review
Very thourogh , yet fun.It gives a more detail than required for grade schoolers.We are able to skip some of the details to get to the main events.The activities are fun too.

Great Main History text
This was by far the best resource for helping my older kids (late elementray through middle school) understand how the war escalated from discontentment to full blown rebellion.The descriptions of the battles were short enough to hold their attention but "meaty" enough to help the boys distinguish between them.We loved the integration of quotes.I appreciated the highlights about many of the founding fathers who are usually glossed.The activites were enjoyable but not show stopping.The book's value is definately in the presentation of information.I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of other books in the series.I hope they are as well written as this!

Great introduction.
Your kids will love this!And, we all need to remember the time when we were the insurgents! ... Read more

Product Description
A study of Lenin and the Russian Revolution. It is designed to fulfil the AS and A Level specifications in place from September 2000. The AS section deals with narrative and explanation of the topic. There are extra notes, biography boxes and definitions in the margin, and summary boxes to help students assimilate the information. The A2 section reflects the different demands of the higher level examination by concentrating on analysis and historians' interpretations of the material covered in the AS section. There are practice questions and hints and tips on what makes a good answer. ... Read more

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At a period when every manly arm was occupied, and every trait of talent or activity engaged, either in the cabinet or the field, apprehensive, that amidst the sudden convulsions, crowded scenes, and rapid changes, that flowed in quick succession, many circumstances might escape the more busy and active members of society, I have been induced to improve the leisure Providence had lent, to record as they passed, in the following pages, the new and inexperienced events exhibited in a land previously blessed with peace, liberty, simplicity, and virtue.

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The additional weight of maritime force that appeared in the American seas in the year 1781 was serious and eventful. In the view of every sagacious eye, this appearance portended events of magnitude that might hasten to a decision the long disputed point between Great Britain and the United States. The European nations considered the present period a crisis of expectation and that the exertions of this year would either extinguish American hopes, or establish their claims as an independent nation.

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The narration of the revolutionary war between Great Britain and her former colonies brought down to its termination leaves the mind at leisure for more general observations on the subsequent consequences, without confining it to time or place.
At the conclusion of the war between Great Britain and America, after the rejection of the claims of a potent foreign nation, the dissevering of old bands of governmental arrangement, and before new ones were adopted, the proud feelings of personal independence warmed every bosom, and the general ideas of civil and religious liberty were disseminated far and wide.

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The bulk of mankind have indeed, in all countries in their turn, been made the prey of ambition. It is a truth that no one will contest, though all may regret, that in proportion to the increase of wealth, the improvement in arts, and the refinements in society, the great body of the people have either by force or fraud become the slaves of the few, who by chance, violence, or accident have destroyed the natural equality of their associates. Sanctioned by time and habit, an indefeasible right has been claimed that sets so mischievous a creature as man above all law, and subjects the lives of millions to the rapacious will of an individual who, by the intoxicating nature of power, soon forgets that there are any obligations due to the subject, a reptile in his opinion, made only for the drudgery necessary to maintain the splendor of government and the support of prerogative. Every step taken by the British government relative to the colonies confirmed this truth, taught them their danger, and evinced to the Americans the necessity of guarding at all points against the assumed jurisdiction of an assembly of men disposed to innovate continually on the rights of their fellow subjects who had no voice in Parliament, and whose petitions did not reach or had no influence on the ear of the sovereign.

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Sir Guy Carleton, the governor of Canada, and who for a number of years had been commander in chief of all the British forces through that province, was a officer of approved fidelity, courage, and ability.He had successfully resisted the storm carried into that country by order of Congress.He had triumphed in the premature fall of the intrepid, but unfortunate Montgomery.He had driven back the impetuous Arnold to the verge of the lakes. He had defeated the operations of General
Thomson in a bold and successless attempt to surprise the British post at Trois Rivieres: General Thomson was there made a prisoner, with all his party who escaped the sword.This happened about the time a detachment was marched northward under the command of General Thomas. He died of the small pox, as related above, when most of his army was destroyed by the sword, sickness, or flight.

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The discordant sounds of war that had long grated the ears of the children of America were now suspended, and the benign and heavenly voice of harmony soothed their wounded feelings, and they flattered themselves the dread summons to slaughter and death would not again resound on their shores. The independence of America acknowledged by the first powers in Europe, and even Great Britain willing to resheathe the sword on the same honorable terms for the United States, every prospect of tranquility appeared.

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