This book is a volume in the Penn Press Anniversary Collection. To mark its 125th anniversary in 2015, the University of Pennsylvania Press rereleased more than 1,100 titles from Penn Press's distinguished backlist from 1899-1999 that had fallen out of print. Spanning an entire century, the Anniversary Collection offers peer-reviewed scholarship in a wide range of subject areas.

Had it not been for the bell-ringing and the firing there would have been little to indicate that a great change of government had taken place. Some new faces indeed were seen at the coffee-house, and some familiar ones were missed, for many members of the old Congress who had failed to secure seats in the new had already packed their portmanteaus and hastened home. But a sense of duty kept a few in their seats, and these continued to hold daily sessions... -from "The Constitution Becomes Law" A bestseller when it was first published in 1883, this first volume of historian John Bach McMaster's magnum opus is a lively history of the United States that is as entertaining as it is informative. Eventually stretching to eight volumes, McMaster's epic was original in its emphasis on social and economic conditions as deciding factors in shaping a nation's culture: in addition to the words and actions of great men and the outcomes of significant skirmishes and battles, McMaster indulges his obsession with fascinating trivia, from which fruits and vegetables were to be found in the markets of 18th-century Boston to the cost of books in Pennsylvania before the Revolution. Volume 1, spanning the colonial period to the immediate aftermath of the war with Britain and the establishment of the federal government, is a compulsively readable account of the birth pangs of the new nation, and covers such intriguing and unlikely topics as the debate over the coinage of the United States, the first American ship to sail for China, and the impact of war debts on the fledgling country. American historian JOHN BACH MCMASTER (1852-1932) taught at the Wharton School of Finance and Economy at the University ofPennsylvania, Philadelphia, from 1883 to 1919. He also wrote Benjamin Franklin as a Man of Letters (1887) and A School History of the United States (1897), which became a definitive textbook.

Things unknown in 1763.--Had a traveler landed on our shores in 1763 and made a journey through the English colonies in America, he would have seen a country utterly unlike the United States of today. The entire population, white man and black, freeman and slave, was not so great as that of New York or Philadelphia or Chicago in our time. If we were to write a list of all the things we now consider as real necessaries of daily life and mark off those unknown to the men of 1763, not one quarter would remain. No man in the country had ever seen a stove, or a furnace, or a friction match, or an envelope, or a piece of mineral coal. From the farmer we should have to take the reaper, the drill, the mowing machine, and every kind of improved rake and plow, and give him back the scythe, the cradle, and the flail.

Welcome to the captivating narrative of American history as told by John Bach McMaster in "A School History of the United States." Embark on a journey through the annals of time, where pivotal events and influential figures shape the very fabric of a nation. McMaster's meticulous attention to detail brings to life the plot points of American history, from the early colonial struggles to the forging of a new republic and the challenges of the modern era. Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, readers will uncover the character development of a nation striving for identity and unity. Themes of liberty, democracy, and manifest destiny permeate the pages, inviting readers to reflect on the evolving ideals and aspirations of the American people. McMaster's exploration of these motifs provides valuable insights into the values that have shaped the nation's trajectory. Character analysis takes center stage as McMaster delves into the lives of influential figures such as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Susan B. Anthony. Through his nuanced portrayal of these individuals, readers gain a deeper understanding of their contributions to the American story. The overall tone of McMaster's work is one of reverence for the American experience, tempered with a critical eye towards its triumphs and shortcomings. His balanced approach invites readers to engage with the complexities of history and draw their own conclusions. Critical reception of McMaster's "A School History of the United States" has been overwhelmingly positive, praised for its accessibility, accuracy, and comprehensive coverage of American history. Educators, students, and history enthusiasts alike have found value in its pages. Designed for a broad audience, from students to lifelong learners, McMaster's narrative serves as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of American history. Its engaging style and informative content make it an ideal companion for classrooms and personal libraries alike. In comparison to other historical texts, McMaster's work stands out for its meticulous research, engaging prose, and comprehensive scope. It offers a holistic view of American history that transcends mere chronology, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the forces at play. Personally, McMaster's exploration of the struggles and triumphs of the American people resonates deeply, offering a profound appreciation for the resilience and tenacity that define the nation's spirit. His narrative serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of those who have shaped the course of history. Don't miss your chance to embark on an enlightening journey through the annals of American history. Let "A School History of the United States" be your guide as you explore the rich tapestry of the American experience. Grab your copy now and discover the timeless lessons that continue to shape our nation's destiny.

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