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Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation

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'Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation' by Joseph J. Ellis is a collection of fascinating vignettes that delve into the relationships and interactions between key figures of the American Revolution era. Through six episodes, Ellis sheds light on the personal dynamics and political complexities among prominent figures such as George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, and Aaron Burr. The book offers a unique perspective, exploring the human side of these historical figures and presenting them as brilliant yet flawed men, rather than distant icons of history. Ellis' writing style is described as relatively casual and accessible, making the historical content engaging and informative for readers of all backgrounds.

Writing/Prose:

The writing combines scholarly insight with engaging storytelling, making complex historical topics approachable.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around significant events and interactions among the founding fathers, highlighting their complexities and the fragile nature of the American project.

Setting:

The setting captures the formative years of the United States, emphasizing the uncertainties and tensions of establishing a new government.

Pacing:

The pacing fluctuates, with some chapters rich in detail, demanding active engagement while others maintain momentum.
On the morning of July 11, 1804,Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton were rowed across the Hudson River inseparate boats to a secluded spot near Weehawken, New Jersey. There, in accordwith the customs of...

Notes:

The book focuses on the years 1789 to 1800, discussing the challenges faced by the Founding Fathers.
Joseph Ellis presents six essays that explore crucial moments in American history.
Ellis emphasizes how fragile the American experiment felt to the Founders.
The Burr-Hamilton duel is analyzed beyond its moral implications, looking at the political climate that led to it.
Political parties were a new concept, and the Founders didn’t see themselves as part of them initially.
Slavery was a significant issue that the Founders largely avoided discussing, fearing it could fracture the nation.
The book illustrates the complex relationships and rivalries among figures like Adams, Jefferson, and Hamilton.
Ellis uses anecdotes and analyses to provide a nuanced view of the founding era, challenging romanticized notions of the Founders.
The chapter on Washington’s Farewell Address discusses his warnings against political parties and foreign alliances.
Adams and Jefferson had a tumultuous yet fascinating friendship, which is delved into through their correspondence.

From The Publisher:

In this landmark work of history and winner of the Pulitzer Prize, Joseph J. Ellis explores how a group of greatly gifted but deeply flawed individuals-Hamilton, Burr, Jefferson, Franklin, Washington, Adams, and Madison-confronted the overwhelming challenges before them to set the course for our nation.

The United States was more a fragile hope than a reality in 1790. During the decade that followed, the Founding Fathers-re-examined here as Founding Brothers-combined the ideals of the Declaration of Independence with the content of the Constitution to create the practical workings of our government. Through an analysis of six fascinating episodes-Hamilton and Burr's deadly duel, Washington's precedent-setting Farewell Address, Adams' administration and political partnership with his wife, the debate about where to place the capital, Franklin's attempt to force Congress to confront the issue of slavery and Madison's attempts to block him, and Jefferson and Adams' famous correspondence-Founding Brothers brings to life the vital issues and personalities from the most important decade in our nation's history.

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About the Author:

JOSEPH J. ELLIS is the author of many works of American history including Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation, which was awarded the Pulitzer Prize, and American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson, which won the National Book Award. He lives in Amherst, Massachusetts with…

 
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