Title
In Public Houses: Drink and the Revolution of Authority in Colonial Massachusetts (Published by the Omohundro Institute of Early,New
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In this study of the role of taverns in the development of Massachusetts society, David Conroy brings into focus a vital and controversial but littleunderstood facet of public life during the colonial era. Concentrating on the Boston area, he reveals a popular culture at odds with Puritan social ideals, one that contributed to the transformation of Massachusetts into a republican society. Public houses were an integral part of colonial community life and hosted a variety of official functions, including meetings of the courts. They also filled a special economic niche for women and the poor, many of whom turned to tavernkeeping to earn a living. But taverns were also the subject of much critical commentary by the clergy and increasingly restrictive regulations. Conroy argues that these regulations were not only aimed at curbing the spiritual corruption associated with public houses but also at restricting the popular culture that had begun to undermine the colony's social and political hierarchy. Specifically, Conroy illuminates the role played by public houses as a forum for the development of a vocal republican citizenry, and he highlights the connections between the vibrant oral culture of taverns and the expanding print culture of newspapers and political pamphlets in the eighteenth century.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'In Public Houses' by David Conroy? A: The book studies the role of taverns in the development of Massachusetts society, particularly in the Boston area, highlighting their contribution to popular culture and republican society during the colonial era.
- Q: What are the key themes explored in the book? A: Key themes include the tension between public houses and Puritan social ideals, the economic role of taverns for women and the poor, and the impact of regulations on public life and popular culture.
- Q: Who is the author of the book and what is his background? A: The author, David W. Conroy, is a scholar who focuses on early American history, particularly the cultural and social dynamics of colonial America.
- Q: What type of binding does this edition of the book have? A: This edition of 'In Public Houses' is available in paperback binding.
- Q: When was 'In Public Houses' published? A: The book was published on June 19, 1995.
- Q: How many pages does the book contain? A: The book contains a total of 368 pages.
- Q: Is this book in new condition? A: Yes, the book is listed as being in new condition.
- Q: What makes this book a valuable resource for understanding colonial Massachusetts? A: The book provides in-depth analysis and insights into the social and economic roles of taverns, making it a significant resource for understanding colonial Massachusetts' public life.
- Q: Does the book include any discussions on taverns as forums for political discourse? A: Yes, Conroy discusses how public houses served as venues for developing a vocal republican citizenry and the connections to print culture of the time.
- Q: What is the edition of this book? A: This is the first edition of 'In Public Houses'.