Author
John William Burgess
1844-1931
John William Burgess (1844-1931) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by John William Burgess
Reconstruction and the Constitution, 1866-1876
"Reconstruction and the Constitution, 1866-1876" by John William Burgess is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book examines the complexities and implications of the Reconstruction era following the American Civil War, focusing particularly on the constitutional aspects of reintegrating the Southern states into the Union. It aims to critique and analyze the various plans and policies that emerged during this transformative period in American history. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the theory of Reconstruction, emphasizing the distinction between the concept of a "state" within a federal system and the nature of local governance. Burgess argues that a proper understanding of what constitutes a "state" is critical for addressing the challenges of Reconstruction, particularly the erroneous means employed in the process. He asserts that both the North and the South must acknowledge their roles in the failures of Reconstruction, and lays out the foundation for the discussions that will follow. This introduction highlights the idea that restoring civil governance requires not only legal frameworks but also a sincere recognition of past errors by both factions.
The Middle Period, 1817-1858
"The Middle Period, 1817-1858" by John W. Burgess is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book analyzes a pivotal era in American history characterized by significant political, social, and territorial changes leading up to the Civil War. The author aims to provide a comprehensive yet impartial examination of this timeframe, focusing on events, legislation, and the evolving philosophies that shaped the nation during this transformative period. The opening of the work establishes the author's approach to writing about the complex and often contentious issues of American history between 1816 and 1860. Burgess acknowledges the challenges of exploring this era due to the passions involved, particularly concerning the North-South divide. He emphasizes his commitment to impartiality while outlining his intention to clarify misunderstandings that linger today between different sections of the country. Burgess sets the stage for a detailed exploration of political developments, such as the evolution of the Republican Party and key legislative measures, along with their impact on both regional and national dynamics.