The Early National Period

December 1, 2004
Gr 9 Up-Early National refers to the years 1783-1828, the era after the Revolutionary War when our nation experienced great political and social change, rapid expansion, and a war. Chronological chapters focus on periods within those years characterized by specific events, conflicts, or crises such as "Federalist Disorder 1797-1800" or "The War of 1812: 1812-1815." The introduction to each section summarizes major events and provides excerpts from primary resources including speeches, letters, newspaper accounts, diary entries, and advertisements. George Washington's 1783 resignation speech to Congress is included alongside a 1784 travel narrative describing American "backwoodsmen." A free black celebrates "the anniversary of the ending of the external slave trade" in 1813, and in an 1814 letter, Thomas Jefferson offers to sell his personal library to Congress after hearing of the destruction of the public library. The short excerpts present a variety of voices but lack introductions so their contexts may be confusing to some students. However, entries do conclude with a line of commentary, a source, and a date. A chronology ends each chapter. Average-quality photos and reproductions are found throughout. Appendixes add depth by offering major documents in their entirety as well as biographical sketches. Since not many books zero in on this time period, this title may fill a gap in collections.-Julie Webb, Shelby County High School, Shelbyville, KY

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