America Afire is the powerful story of the election of 1800; arguably the most important election in America's history and certainly one of the most hotly disputed. Former allies Adams and Jefferson; president versus vice president; Federalist versus Republican; squared off in a vicious contest that resulted in broken friendships; scandals; riots; slander; and jailings in the fourth presidential election under the Constitution.
#571526 in Books 1998-11-10 1998-11-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.00 x 1.80 x 5.20l; 1.18 #File Name: 0375752188736 pages
Review
1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. The Life and Selected Writings of Thomas JeffersonBy B. WidenerThis is one of my favorite pieces in my modest collection. The autobiography is great; but I am particularly fond of all the letters and documents found in the last half of the book. This book is mandatory; in my opinion; for any person interesting in the colonial and/or constitutional era of the United States.35 of 40 people found the following review helpful. A excellent anthology for your libraryBy Baltic BooksWe added this book to our library when I was doing research for a doctoral project on Racism. In one volume; is Jefferson's autobiography; travel journals; essays; biographies of other historical figures; notes and correspondence. It is a wealth of material into a foundation stone personality of our American identity.Lately Jefferson has drawn fire because of his position on slavery and his philandering activities as a plantation owner. Still; within this volume you can observe the full story historical context provides.In my favorite passage in connection with the slavery issue he writes;"And can the liberties of a nation be though secure when we have removed their only firm basis; a conviction in the minds of thepeople that these liberties are the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever; that considering numbers;nature and natural means only; a revolution of the wheel of fortune; an exchange of situation is among possible events; that it may become probably by supernatural interference! The Almighty has no attribute which can take side with us in such a contest." (Notes on Virginia; Query XVIII; p. 278 Modern Library Edition)I think every family should have a copy of this volume in their library. It is enlightening; powerful and life changing material.36 of 37 people found the following review helpful. Jefferson the " American Mind"By G. F GoriThis study is a wonderful compilation of the life and writings of Thomas Jefferson. The introduction by Koch and Peden of Jefferson's long and fruitful life is rich and complete. Jefferson's greatness shines forth in the pages of this volume. His Anas; Autobiography; Essay of the Anglo Saxon language; Notes on Virginia; And his numerous public papers and letters show the reader the depth of this great man. Koch and Peden clearly admire Jefferon which is a welcome respite from the sad and anti-intellectual deconstructionist philosophy of modern historians. No PC here. For a student of Jefferson; or someone attempting to familiarize themselves with his ideals; this is a great buy!
