63 pages • 2 hours read
The Radicalism of the American Revolution
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Book Brief
The Radicalism of the American Revolution
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1991464
Book • Nonfiction
American Colonies • 18th century
1991
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Radicalism of the American Revolution, historian Gordon S. Wood examines the transformative social changes in American society before, during, and after the American Revolution, arguing that these developments were as radical as those in any other revolution. Wood explores the evolution from a society dominated by a few educated gentlemen to a more egalitarian and democratic one driven by common men. The book contains references to the US chattel slavery system.
Informative
Inspirational
Contemplative
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
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Review Roundup
Gordon S. Wood's The Radicalism of the American Revolution presents a compelling argument that the American Revolution was not just a colonial rebellion but a profound social transformation. Praised for its thorough research and engaging prose, it sometimes faces criticism for a perceived overemphasis on ideological changes at the expense of economic and class factors.
Who Should Read The Radicalism of the American Revolution?
A reader who enjoys in-depth historical analysis and interpretations of the American Revolution will find Gordon S. Wood's The Radicalism of the American Revolution captivating. Similar to Bernard Bailyn's The Ideological Origins of the American Revolution and Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States, this book is ideal for those interested in the transformative impact of the Revolution.
5,663 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Common People
Common People
The segment of colonial society initially seen as insignificant by the aristocracy, who played a crucial role in altering the political and social landscape of America by embracing concepts of equality and individual rights after the Revolution.
Aristocrats
Aristocrats
A small, influential class in colonial America that included well-educated, well-mannered individuals who often served as societal leaders and patrons, heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideas, and were initially resistant to the shifts brought by the common people's pursuit of equality.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson
A key figure in American history, Jefferson was a wealthy farmer and political leader who authored the Declaration of Independence and witnessed America's transition from a republic to a more democratic society, feeling conflicted about the extent of these changes later in life.
464
Book • Nonfiction
American Colonies • 18th century
1991
Adult
18+ years
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