Author
Thomas Dixon
1864-1946
Thomas Dixon (1864-1946) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Thomas Dixon
Comrades: A Story of Social Adventure in California
"Comrades: A Story of Social Adventure in California" by Thomas Dixon Jr. is a novel published in 1909. When Norman Worth becomes enamored with a socialist activist, his father buys him a California island to establish a socialist commune. As the idealistic experiment unfolds, the commune faces internal power struggles, declining productivity, and authoritarian control. This controversial anti-socialist work sparked heated critical debate and was later adapted into both a play and a film.
The Victim: A Romance of the Real Jefferson Davis
"The Victim: A Romance of the Real Jefferson Davis" by Thomas Dixon is a historical romance written in the early 20th century. The narrative delves into the life of Jefferson Davis, providing a dramatic portrayal of his characterization and events surrounding the Civil War, focusing on themes of sacrifice, valour, and destiny. The opening features pivotal historical figures and sets the stage for a blend of personal and political narratives. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to young Jefferson Davis and his interactions with family members, primarily his older brother and sister, as they prepare him for a journey to receive an education. The emotional undertones of family bonds and the boy's reluctant departure highlight the tension between duty and personal desire. Meanwhile, the prologue hints at the significant historical backdrop against which these intimate stories unfold, foreshadowing the hardships and turbulent times that lie ahead for Jefferson and the South during the Civil War.
The Clansman: An Historical Romance of the Ku Klux Klan
"The Clansman: An Historical Romance of the Ku Klux Klan" by Thomas Dixon Jr. is a novel published in 1905. Set during the Civil War and Reconstruction, it portrays the rise of the Ku Klux Klan from a pro-Confederate perspective. The story follows Northern and Southern families whose lives intertwine amid political upheaval, as the novel depicts Reconstruction as oppressive and presents the Klan as defenders of white Southerners. This controversial work sparked immediate outrage and was later adapted into the infamous film "The Birth of a Nation."
The Foolish Virgin
"The Foolish Virgin" by Thomas Dixon Jr. is a novel published in 1915. A New York City schoolteacher named Mary Adams longs for marriage and begins a romance with Jim Anthony, a man she meets at the library. When she discovers his dark secrets during a trip to North Carolina, her dreams unravel into a crisis that will test her hopes for the future. Dixon's controversial work critiques women's emancipation through Mary's tumultuous journey from naive romantic to unwed mother.
The Leopard's Spots: A Romance of the White Man's Burden—1865-1900
"The Leopard's Spots: A Romance of the White Man's Burden—1865-1900" by Thomas Dixon is a novel published in 1902. The first book in Dixon's Reconstruction trilogy presents a controversial portrayal of the post-Civil War South, depicting Reconstruction leaders and emancipated slaves as villains while casting Ku Klux Klan members as anti-heroes. Written as a direct response to Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin," Dixon reimagines Stowe's characters with inverted sympathies, promoting white supremacist ideology through his racist interpretation of Reconstruction-era America.
The Southerner: A Romance of the Real Lincoln
"The Southerner: A Romance of the Real Lincoln" by Thomas Dixon is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work explores the personal and social dynamics of Southern life around the time of Abraham Lincoln, incorporating themes of family, education, and personal ambition. The narrative follows a man named Tom, who is portrayed as a rugged pioneer facing the introspective struggle of balancing his humble, rural life with the aspirations set forth by his ambitious wife, Nancy. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Tom and Nancy in their rustic cabin, revealing the challenges they face in their daily lives. Tom, a proud and strong man, struggles with the desire for a simple life in the woods, while Nancy dreams of educating him and elevating their status in society. Her determination and vision for their future are contrasted against Tom's reluctance to embrace change. As the story unfolds, Nancy's ambitions lead her to envision a brighter future for their unborn son, foreshadowing the larger historical and societal themes that will be interwoven throughout their lives. The opening chapters establish not only their relationship dynamics but also the backdrop of the Southern experience during a transformative era in American history.
The Root of Evil
"The Root of Evil" by Thomas Dixon is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in New York City and the mountains of North Carolina, focusing on the lives of James Stuart, a young lawyer, and his fiancée Nan Primrose amidst a backdrop of rising social conflicts and personal dilemmas. The novel delves into themes of love, ambition, morality, and the fight against corrupt societal influences, with the main characters caught in a web of expectations and desires. The opening portion introduces us to James Stuart, who reflects on his love for Nan while living in New York, watching the world around him with a sense of idyllic joy. However, his happiness is soon overshadowed by the realization that Nan’s mother is scheming to break their engagement by involving affluent suitors like John C. Calhoun Bivens, a millionaire. The tension escalates as James grapples with the prospect of losing Nan due to external pressures and internal conflicts regarding wealth and integrity. As James navigates his relationship with Nan and suitable career choices, a showdown with Bivens looms on the horizon, setting the stage for a confrontation over ideals and love in a rapidly changing society.
The Man in Gray: A Romance of North and South
"The Man in Gray: A Romance of North and South" by Thomas Dixon is a historical novel likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative centers around significant historical figures and events surrounding the American Civil War, exploring themes of Southern identity, family, and the institution of slavery through the lives of the characters, including Colonel Robert E. Lee and his family, as well as the enslaved individuals on the plantation. The opening of the novel sets a vivid scene at Arlington as preparations are underway for a festive ball in honor of the departing cadets, including Custis Lee, son of Robert E. Lee. As the celebration unfolds, the atmosphere is filled with youthful exuberance and Southern charm, juxtaposed with deeper discussions about the contentious issue of slavery and the looming tensions between North and South. Key characters such as Custis and his friends interact in a lighthearted manner, while Colonel Lee finds himself confronted with the harsh realities of the political turmoil of the time, particularly regarding the impact of Harriet Beecher Stowe’s "Uncle Tom's Cabin." This blend of personal and political narrative sets the stage for a complex exploration of the historical context, morality, and Southern pride.
The Sins of the Father: A Romance of the South
"The Sins of the Father: A Romance of the South" by Thomas Dixon Jr. is a novel published in 1912. Dan Norton, a Confederate veteran and Ku Klux Klan leader, begins a forbidden relationship with Cleo, a quadroon woman hired as his family's caretaker. Their secret affair produces devastating consequences that spiral through the next generation. Dixon explores themes of miscegenation and racial separation against the backdrop of the post-Civil War South, culminating in a tragic ending that destroys Norton's entire family.
The One Woman: A Story of Modern Utopia
"The One Woman: A Story of Modern Utopia" by Jr. Thomas Dixon is a novel published in 1903. Reverend Joseph Gordon's socialist convictions clash with his New York church and alienate his wife. When he divorces her to pursue a wealthy parishioner who funds his utopian "Temple of Man," his ideals collide with passion and jealousy. A love triangle with his millionaire friend leads to murder, a death sentence, and a desperate race against time for redemption.
The Traitor: A Story of the Fall of the Invisible Empire
"The Traitor: A Story of the Fall of the Invisible Empire" by Thomas Dixon Jr. is a novel published in 1907. The third installment in Dixon's Ku Klux Klan trilogy, it follows Confederate veteran John Graham as Grand Dragon of the Klan in North Carolina. When the original Klan disbands under orders from its first Grand Wizard, a rival starts a new organization. The novel explores Dixon's distinction between what he viewed as the "good" original Klan and a more violent successor group during the Reconstruction era.
The Fall of a Nation A Sequel to the Birth of a Nation
"The Fall of a Nation" by Thomas Dixon is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This sequel to "The Birth of a Nation" explores themes of American democracy, the tensions of militarism, and the influence of women in the political arena during a time of crisis. The story centers around characters such as the ambitious Congressman John Vassar and the passionate suffragette Virginia Holland, whose views clash against the backdrop of a nation grappling with its identity and values. The opening of the novel sets a grand stage, beginning with a prologue that reflects on historical struggles for freedom and democracy. It quickly transitions to contemporary issues, introducing key characters like John Vassar, who is introduced as a powerful figure in politics but is faced with opposition from emerging voices advocating for peace and women's rights. As political tensions rise with the introduction of a military bill in Congress, Virginia Holland finds herself in a conflict of ideals with Vassar, leading to a tense yet dynamic exploration of their respective beliefs. The early chapters capture their ideological battle as they navigate a society on the brink of change, providing insight into the American mindset at a pivotal moment in history.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Thomas Dixon
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Thomas Dixon" by Jr. Thomas Dixon is a compilation of various literary works written during the early 20th century. This book serves as a catalog of Dixon's diverse contributions, which include novels, historical romances, and social commentaries, often touching upon topics related to the American South, race relations, and the impact of the Civil War. The collection reflects the author’s perspective on significant historical events and the characters shaped by them. The contents of the book feature several titles, including "The Clansman," "The Foolish Virgin," and "The Fall of a Nation," among others. Each entry provides insight into Dixon's exploration of themes such as love, morality, societal structure, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of historical events. Works like "The Clansman" depict the post-Civil War South and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, emphasizing the struggles of individuals caught in these tumultuous times. Overall, this index serves not just as a reference but as an invitation to engage with Dixon's narratives that interweave personal and collective histories.
A Man of the People: A Drama of Abraham Lincoln
"A Man of the People: A Drama of Abraham Lincoln" by Thomas Dixon is a historical drama written in the early 20th century. This work explores pivotal moments in the life of Abraham Lincoln, particularly during the tumultuous times of the American Civil War, focusing on Lincoln's struggles to preserve the Union and address the issues of slavery. The narrative highlights Lincoln as the central figure, facing pressures from political factions and personal convictions. The opening of the play sets the tone for Lincoln's character by showcasing his early life and relationship with his family, particularly during a moment of crisis involving his mother's illness. Young Abe, portrayed anxiously waiting outside as a doctor tends to his mother, exhibits a deep love for his family, hinting at the humility and compassion that will define his leadership. As the scene unfolds, a prophetic conversation between Lincoln and his dying mother emphasizes themes of faith, destiny, and the burdens of leadership, foreshadowing Abraham's future role as a pivotal leader during the nation’s darkest hours. This introduction paints a picture of the personal and emotional landscape that will influence Lincoln's decisions as the narrative progresses.
The way of a man : $b a story of the new woman
"The way of a man: a story of the new woman" by Thomas Dixon Jr. is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows Ellen West, a brilliant New York feminist editor whose attacks on marriage and advocacy of female independence collide with the allure of love and power as she attracts the author Randolph Field, the millionaire Edwin Brown, and the young journalist Ralph Manning. The book probes the clash between the New Woman’s ideals—sexual, economic, and spiritual autonomy—and the old order’s claims of romance, marriage, and possession. The opening of the novel finds Ellen hosting a triumphant Fifth Avenue reception after her election as a reform club’s president, where her manifesto against marriage and for “sex freedom” sets the tone. Field, her realist neighbor, confesses love on the roof and is coolly refused. Brown arrives uninvited; in a candid rooftop interview he first offers a lavish “free alliance,” then marriage, and is rejected on both counts. Ellen is then unexpectedly smitten with Manning, her friend’s Southern nephew, whose earnest ambition and freshness disarm her skepticism. As they meet nightly, she falls hard, while he wins a newspaper post and returns with a ring fashioned from his mother’s earrings, proposing ardently on the starlit roof. She reciprocates his love but refuses marriage on principle, arguing for a free, self-directed union, and their debate over love, freedom, and the “home” swells into a tense impasse as the opening section ends.