Free-Thought on the American Frontier
YA-- This collection of memoirs, essays, political cartoons, songs, and poetry is an excellent primary source on the social history of the West. Its major focus is on the free-thought movement that was taking place during the 19th century, thus providing a contrast to the movements that were coming out of the East at that time. Essays by such social critics as Oliver Wendell Holmes, Mark Twain, Carl Sandburg, and Langston Hughes are included. Populist, Socialist, and labor-related issues are also presented. The book has good illustrations and political cartoons. However, there is no index, and some background information is required.- Edward M. Cooley, R . E. Lee High School, Springfield, VACopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.