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American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence,Used
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Pauline Maier shows us the Declaration as both the defining statement of our national identity and the moral standard by which we live as a nation. It is truly 'American Scripture,' and Maier tells us how it came to be from the Declaration's birth in the hard and tortuous struggle by which Americans arrived at Independence to the ways in which, in the nineteenth century, the document itself became sanctified.Maier describes the transformation of the Second Continental Congress into a national government, unlike anything that preceded or followed it, and with more authority than the colonists would ever have conceded to the British Parliament; the great difficulty in making the decision for Independence; the influence of Paine's []Common Sense[], which shifted the terms of debate; and the political maneuvers that allowed Congress to make the momentous decision.In Maier's hands, the Declaration of Independence is brought close to us. She lets us hear the voice of the people as revealed in the other 'declarations' of 1776: the local resolutions most of which have gone unnoticed over the past two centuries that explained, advocated, and justified Independence and undergirded Congress's work. Detectivelike, she discloses the origins of key ideas and phrases in the Declaration and unravels the complex story of its drafting and of the groupediting job which angered Thomas Jefferson.Maier also reveals what happened to the Declaration after the signing and celebration: how it was largely forgotten and then revived to buttress political arguments of the nineteenth century; and, most important, how Abraham Lincoln ensured its persistence as a living force in American society. Finally, she shows how by the very act of venerating the Declaration as we do by holding it as sacrosanct, akin to holy writ we may actually be betraying its purpose and its power.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence'? A: 'American Scripture' by Pauline Maier focuses on the Declaration of Independence as a foundational document of American identity and moral standards. It explores its historical context, drafting, and the significance it holds in American society.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence' is Pauline Maier, a noted historian recognized for her insights into American history and the Revolutionary period.
- Q: What is the publication date of this book? A: 'American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence' was published on June 17, 1997.
- Q: What are the key themes discussed in the book? A: Key themes in the book include the origins of the Declaration of Independence, the political maneuvers behind its adoption, and its evolving significance throughout American history, particularly its revival in the nineteenth century.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This edition of 'American Scripture' is bound in hardcover, providing durability and a premium feel.
- Q: How many pages does 'American Scripture' contain? A: 'American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence' contains 304 pages.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic study? A: Yes, 'American Scripture' is suitable for academic study as it provides a detailed analysis of the Declaration of Independence and offers insights into its historical significance, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars.
- Q: Does the book include any illustrations or images? A: The primary focus of 'American Scripture' is its text, and it does not prominently feature illustrations or images. It is a scholarly work centered on historical analysis.
- Q: What condition is the book in? A: The book is listed as 'New,' indicating it is in excellent condition and has not been previously owned.
- Q: What is the significance of the title 'American Scripture'? A: The title 'American Scripture' signifies the importance of the Declaration of Independence as a sacred text in American history, embodying the values and ideals that define the nation.