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American Creation: Triumphs and Tragedies in the Founding of the Republic (Vintage) Author: Joseph J. Ellis $10.17 |
American Creation: Triumphs and Tragedies in the Founding of the Republic (Vintage) |
Editorial Review:
Acclaimed historian Joseph J. Ellis brings his unparalleled talents to this riveting account of the early years of the Republic.
The last quarter of the eighteenth century remains the most politically creative era in American history, when a dedicated group of men undertook a bold experiment in political ideals. It was a time of both triumphs and tragedies--all of which contributed to the shaping of our burgeoning nation. Ellis casts an incisive eye on the gradual pace of the American Revolution and the contributions of such luminaries as Washington, Jefferson, and Madison, and brilliantly analyzes the failures of the founders to adequately solve the problems of slavery and the treatment of Native Americans. With accessible prose and stunning eloquence, Ellis delineates in American Creation an era of flawed greatness, at a time when understanding our origins is more important than ever.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.0 / 5.0 
What were the founders were thinking?:
The GOOD -- A nice, fairly entertaining, analysis of 5 key events in early US history from 1775 to 1803 with insights you probably didn't get learning about them in school.
The BAD -- Ellis writes with metaphors galore, which can sometimes get annoying.
The UGLY -- Does Ellis really think he "knows" what people were thinking 200+ years ago?
Valued perspective: 
At this late date (almost sixty previous and voluminous reviews) why bother? Well I can suggest that as we look at an important inauguration, Ellis provides us with the perspective of Valley Forge, the Declaration, the Constitution and the Louisiana Purchase. He shows the founders as men who had an investment of self and belief that led to political duplicity and infighting that today would land them on the Daily Show or Sat. Night Live at a rate which would have exceeded this recent campaign. This is not...more info
The Founding Fathers, Neither Jeckels nor Hydes:
This is a great addition to the history books covering the founding of our nation. Ellis covers the facts and corrects the fictions have become lore, and does so in a manner that is interesting and revealing. The Founding Fathers were neither geniuses who walked on water with the foresight of gods; nor were they evil white men hell-bent on establishing a utopia for themselves only. Yes, they were remarkable men with great talent, but they were men nonetheless, with weaknesses and inconsistencies. Ellis...more info
A great starting point:
Admittedly, there's not much new here, but this concise, well written, thought provoking book still serves as an excellent introduction to the many complex issues faced by the founding generation. The chapters on early U. S.-Native American relations, and the Louisiana Purchase were particularly illuminating.
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