This series delves into the profound currents of American thought and culture, tracing their evolution from foundational periods to contemporary expressions. Each volume offers incisive analyses of the pivotal ideas, movements, and artistic trends that have shaped the United States. It is essential reading for those interested in intellectual history, social commentary, and the complexities of American identity. The collection uncovers the fascinating dialogue between past and present that continues to resonate today.
From the rise of ticker-tape technology to the development of conspiracy theories, Reading the Market argues that commentary on the Stock Exchange between 1870 and 1915 changed how Americans understood finance-and explains what our pervasive interest in Wall Street says about us now.
Fallen Drunkards and Redeeming Women in the Nineteenth-Century United States
The narrative of a young man's downfall due to alcohol consumption in 19th-century literature highlights the tension between personal choice and environmental factors. Elaine Frantz Parsons critiques this portrayal, suggesting it downplays free will while emphasizing societal influences on issues like drunkenness and poverty. This perspective ultimately paved the way for state intervention, culminating in Prohibition. The work explores the cultural implications of these reformers' stories and their unintended consequences on social policy.
The Friendly Club of New York City and the Making of American Literature
The book explores how young New Yorkers utilized voluntary associations and print culture to create a more inclusive and diverse public sphere in the post-revolutionary era. Waterman argues that this development has been overlooked by scholars, highlighting the significant role these elements played in shaping public discourse and community engagement during a transformative period in American history.
Focusing on the intellectual evolution of Benjamin Franklin, this work explores his multifaceted contributions to theology, moral psychology, and scientific inquiry. Anderson traces Franklin's development from his early writings, such as the Silence Dogood letters, to his later influential essays like "Observations Concerning the Increase of Mankind." By contextualizing Franklin's prolific output, including Poor Richard's Almanac and his experiments with electricity, the book deepens our understanding of his complex character and lasting impact on American thought.