Title: A History of the American People, Volume 3
Description: Woodrow Wilson, though one of the most purely progressive Presidents of the United States, was certainly not a progressive historian. His The History of the American People seldom even contains the slightest hint of disapproval with the institutional status quo of American society. This is the great paradox of progressivism in the early 20th century; although a profound engine for change, it was essentially a conservative movement.In this sense, The History remains valuable for its very unoriginality; its orthodoxy is to notions that the progressive, and later historians reacted against. Examined from today’s “global view” Wilson’s writing is at times unbalanced and unenlightened, but as an expression of the foundation for the modern era of American life, The History can hardly be more educational. That it is also thoughtful, imaginative, and beautifully written is a bonus not easily dismissed.The narration continues in Volume 3 with the completion of the Revolution as England feels the press to allocate military resources elsewhere. Wilson’s legal background is reflected in his recounting of the development of the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution. One of the causes for the colonials’ ill will toward England is the restriction the English Parliament passes on the export of industrial machinery. Wilson sees this however as fueling the now American passion for inventiveness and industry.The industrial rise of both North and South rapidly multiplies new situations for the states and government to address. As the nation continues to grow, the country will be put to the test by the oncoming Civil War.
Subjects: History, Nonfiction