BOOK BRIEF

First Principles: What America's Founders Learned from the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country

Thomas E. Ricks
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First Principles: What America's Founders Learned from the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020

Book Brief

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Thomas E. Ricks

First Principles: What America's Founders Learned from the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
American Literature

Biography

Philosophy
Period
American Revolution
Setting

Early America • 18th century

Topic
Philosophy

Politics & Government

World History
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In First Principles, Thomas E. Ricks explores how America's founders drew inspiration from Greek and Roman philosophy to shape the nation's foundation. The book examines the classical influences on key figures like Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and Madison, highlighting how ancient ideas about governance, democracy, and civic duty informed the construction of the United States.

Informative

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.3

7,095 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

First Principles by Thomas E. Ricks is praised for its insightful exploration of classical influences on America's founders. Readers appreciate its engaging narrative and historical depth. However, some critics find the analysis somewhat repetitive and feel it occasionally overlooks other critical influences on early American thought. Overall, it's a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read First Principles: What America's Founders Learned from the Greeks and Romans and How That Shaped Our Country?

Readers interested in how classical influences shaped America's founding will enjoy Thomas E. Ricks's First Principles. Fans of deeper historical insights akin to David McCullough's 1776 or Joseph J. Ellis's Founding Brothers will appreciate the blend of history and classical philosophy.

4.3

7,095 ratings

85%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
American Literature

Biography

Philosophy
Period
American Revolution
Setting

Early America • 18th century

Topic
Philosophy

Politics & Government

World History
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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