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Edmund Ollier's Cassell's History of the United States is an ambitious and richly illustrated nineteenth-century survey of American history, tracing the nation's development from the earliest European exploration and settlement of North America through to the dramatic events of the nineteenth century. Written for a broad readership at a time when interest in the United States was growing rapidly throughout the British Empire, the work combines political, military, social, and economic history into a sweeping narrative that chronicles the rise of one of the world's emerging powers. Across three substantial volumes, readers encounter the personalities, conflicts, and turning points that shaped the American republic.
The set devotes considerable attention to the formative struggles of the colonial era, including encounters between European settlers and Indigenous peoples, the expansion of the British colonies, and the mounting tensions that ultimately led to the American Revolution. The careers of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, and other influential figures are explored alongside the political debates and military campaigns that forged national independence. Ollier's engaging style allows complex events to unfold as a compelling story, making the work both educational and highly readable.
The later volumes chart the rapid growth of the United States during the nineteenth century, examining westward expansion, industrial development, sectional conflict, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the nation's emergence as a continental power. Throughout, the text is complemented by a wealth of engraved illustrations, portraits, maps, and dramatic historical scenes that bring the narrative vividly to life. These illustrations remain among the set's greatest attractions, providing a fascinating visual record of how American history was interpreted and presented to Victorian readers.
This complete three-volume set is particularly impressive in its beautiful leather and gilt bindings featuring the American eagle device to each cover, with marbled text block edges and handsome period craftsmanship throughout. The substantial format, attractive presentation, and abundance of illustrations give the set exceptional shelf presence, while its completeness greatly enhances its desirability. Combining decorative appeal with an extensive account of American history, Cassell's History of the United States remains one of the most attractive Victorian histories of America and an increasingly sought-after set for collectors of Americana, military history, and fine bindings.
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