Frederick Merk Livres

Exploring the theme of dissent, this book examines the perspectives and actions of individuals and groups who opposed the U.S. involvement in three significant wars. It delves into the historical context, motivations, and consequences of anti-war sentiments, highlighting the voices that challenged the status quo. Through a critical lens, the narrative reveals the complexities of patriotism, activism, and the struggle for peace in times of conflict.

Before this book first appeared in 1963, most historians wrote as if the continental expansion of the United States were inevitable. "What is most impressive," Henry Steele Commager and Richard Morris declared in 1956, "is the ease, the simplicity, and seeming inevitability of the whole process." The notion of inevitability, however, is perhaps only a secular variation on the theme of the expansionist editor John L. O'Sullivan, who in 1845 coined one of the most famous phrases in American history when he wrote of "our manifest destiny to overspread the continent allotted by Providence for the free development of our yearly multiplying millions." Frederick Merk rejected inevitability in favor of a more contingent interpretation of American expansionism in the 1840s. As his student Henry May later recalled, Merk "loved to get the facts straight." --From the Foreword by John Mack Faragher

The book explores the impact of propaganda during the Tyler Administration, examining how communication strategies influenced public perception and political dynamics of the time. It delves into the methods employed to shape narratives and the consequences of these efforts on governance and society. Through a historical lens, it highlights the interplay between politics and media, offering insights into the significance of propaganda in shaping policy and public opinion during this pivotal period in American history.

The book provides a comprehensive collection of references focused on the history of the West, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and enthusiasts. It encompasses various topics and themes related to Western history, allowing readers to explore the subject through curated sources. This reference list aims to facilitate deeper understanding and study of the significant events, figures, and cultural developments that have shaped the Western narrative.

As a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, this book preserves the original text while acknowledging potential imperfections from its age, such as marks and notations. It serves as a testament to the cultural significance of the work, reflecting a commitment to protecting and promoting literature through accessible, high-quality editions that remain true to the original.

The book explores the historical and political complexities surrounding the Oregon Question, a significant territorial dispute between the United States and Great Britain in the 19th century. It delves into the motivations behind expansionist policies, the impact on indigenous populations, and the eventual resolution of the conflict. Through a detailed examination of key figures and events, it provides insights into the broader implications for American identity and westward expansion during this pivotal era.