Books like The First American by Henry William Brands
He was the foremost American of his day, yet today he is little more than a mythic caricature in the public imagination. Benjamin Franklin, perhaps the pivotal figure in colonial and revolutionary America, comes vividly to life in this masterly biography.Wit, diplomat, scientist, philosopher, businessman, inventor, and bon vivant, Benjamin Franklin was in every respect America's first Renaissance man. From penniless runaway to highly successful printer, from ardently loyal subject of Britain to architect of an alliance with France that ensured America's independence, Franklin went from obscurity to become one of the world's most admired figures, whose circle included the likes of Voltaire, Hume, Burke, and Kant. Drawing on previously unpublished letters and a host of other sources, acclaimed historian H. W. Brands has written a thoroughly engaging biography of the eighteenth-century genius. A much needed reminder of Franklin's greatness and humanity, The First American is a work of meticulous scholarship that provides a magnificent tour of a legendary historical figure, a vital era in American life, and the countless arenas in which the protean Franklin left his legacy.From the Trade Paperback edition.
First publish date: 2000
Authors: Henry William Brands
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Books similar to The First American (11 similar books)
A compelling overview of American history through the eyes and experiences of its women, workers, African Americans, Native Americans, immigrants, and the working poor.
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Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography chronicles his rise from a self‑taught youth to a celebrated printer, inventor, diplomat, and statesman, offering insight into his life and the early United States.
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No other narrative account of Abraham Lincolns life has inspired such widespread acclaim as Lord Charnwoods Abraham Lincoln: A Complete Biography. Lord Charnwood has given us the most complete interpretation of Lincoln as yet produced, and he has presented it in such artistic form that it may well become a classic. Many contemporary historians consider this thorough and superbly crafted work the quintessential biography of one of Americas greatest presidents. Charnwoods study of Lincoln's statesmanship introduced generations of Americans to the life and politics of Lincoln, and the authors observations are so comprehensive and well supported that any serious study of Lincoln must respond to his conclusions.
Lord Charnwood, a British by birth, was a man of many affairs and much learning. He had training in historical research and his work exhibits evidences of industrious and careful investigation. He made close examination of American newspapers of the period covered, and has had access to original manuscript archives in the State and Navy departments at Washington.
This is essential reading for anyone interested in Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War, or American political history.
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Some Other Similar Books
Dreams of My Father by Barack ObamaThe Origins of the American Revolution by Bernard Bailyn
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin
The American Revolution: A History by Gordon S. Wood
Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation by Joseph J. Ellis
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