Author

Charles A. (Charles Austin) Beard

1874-1948

Charles A. (Charles Austin) Beard (1874-1948) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

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Subjects

Books by Charles A. (Charles Austin) Beard

History of the United States

"History of the United States" by Charles A. Beard and Mary Ritter Beard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide a comprehensive and progressive approach to American history, highlighting the social, economic, and political aspects that shaped the nation. It sets itself apart from traditional narratives by omitting extensive accounts of exploration and battles, focusing instead on the development of American citizenship, culture, and governance. The opening of the book introduces the authors' perspective on American historical education, criticizing existing methods that often fail to impart a meaningful understanding of history to students. They propose a new approach that prioritizes topical discussions over mere narratives, emphasizing key themes and movements that have contributed to the country's identity. The initial chapters outline the conditions and motivations behind early colonization, including the roles of trading companies, religious congregations, and proprietary systems, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the diverse peoples and influences that molded the United States.

An economic interpretation of the Constitution of the United States

"An Economic Interpretation of the Constitution of the United States" by Charles A. Beard is a history book published in 1913. It argues that the Founding Fathers designed the Constitution primarily to protect their personal financial interests rather than purely democratic ideals. Through examination of tax records, property holdings, and biographical sources, Beard contends the Constitutional Convention was attended by a wealthy elite seeking to safeguard their investments and economic standing, challenging traditional views of America's founding document.

Contemporary American History, 1877-1913

"Contemporary American History, 1877-1913" by Charles A. Beard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of American history during a transformative period marked by the aftereffects of the Civil War, the rise of industrialization, and the socio-political dynamics that shaped modern America. Beard's work seeks to fill a gap in existing texts by presenting significant political issues and developments through an accessible narrative. The opening of the volume sets the stage by highlighting the political climate following President Hayes' inauguration in 1877, emphasizing the waning influence of Republican leadership in the South and the increasing power of conservative white Democrats. The narrative introduces themes of disenfranchisement, particularly focusing on the systematic efforts to undermine the political rights of African Americans in the post-Reconstruction South through intimidation and legal restrictions. Beard underscores the conclusion that, following the withdrawal of Federal troops, the restoration of white dominance became evident as southern states began enacting measures that effectively denied the freedmen their rights.