The Birth of America - From Before Columbus to the Revolution

In this concise history of Colonial America, celebrated scholar William R. Polk traces the growth of a national character and spirit of independence, from the arrival of European colonists in the New World to the eve of the American Revolution. The Birth of America emphasizes the basic flaw of colonialism, an essentially parent-child relationship; eventually any child wants to break free and live an independent life. The Revolution, therefore, was a logical step in the evolution of the United States. As John Adams wrote, ''This radical change in the principles, opinions, sentiments, and affections of the people was the real American Revolution.'' William R. Polk taught Middle Eastern history and politics and Arabic at Harvard until 1961, when he became a member of the Policy Planning Council of the U.S. Department of State. In 1965, he became Professor of History at the University of Chicago, where he established the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. His many books include The Birth of America and Understanding Iraq. ''Packed with impeccable scholarship and insightful analysis.'' - Kirkus Reviews

About the author

William R. Polk taught Middle Eastern history and politics and Arabic at Harvard until 1961, when he became a member of the Policy Planning Council of the U.S. Department of State. In 1965, he became Professor of History at the University of Chicago, where he established the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. His many books include The Birth of America and Understanding Iraq.

Product details

• Authors: William R Polk, William R. Polk, William Roe Polk
• Publisher: Harper Perennial USA
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 24.04.2007
• EAN: 9780060750930
• ISBN: 978-0-06-075093-0
• No. of pages: 416
• Dimensions: 135 mm x 203 mm x 24 mm
• Subjects: Non-fiction book > History > Miscellaneous; HISTORY: General, HISTORY: AMERICAN, HISTORY: United States / Civil War Period (1850-1877), HISTORY: United States / Colonial Period (1600-1775), HISTORY: United States / Revolutionary Period (1775-1800), HISTORY: North America, HISTORY: United States / State & Local / General