About the Book

The first and only conservative history of the United States-from the author ofModern Times andA History of the Jews-offers a challenging and lucid look at our nation from the first colonies to the 1996 elections.-The creation of the United States is the greatest of all human adventures,' writes Johnson, and this work is a reinterpretation of every aspect of American history-its politics and economics; its art, literature, and science; its religious beliefs. Johnson tells the story in terms of the outstanding men and women who personally shaped and led the nation and also the ordinary people who have given the country its practical idealism and strength.aThis provocative portrayal of the -Great American Experiment' will be widely discussed and debated as it explores the relevant political and moral issues still shaping the nation today.

Critical Praise

"Paul Johnson's A History of the American People is as majestic in its scope as the country it celebrates. His theme is the men and women, prominent and unknown, whose energy, vision, courage and confidence shaped a great nation. It is a compelling antidote to those who regard the future with pessimism." — Henry A. Kissinger

"A memorable, pleasurable, and instructive reading experience...This outstanding narrative interpretation, whether underscoring either the costs and injustices attending this country's creating or emphasizing admirable aspects of democratic, constitutional achievement." — Booklist

"Johnson understands something most academics today do not know or want to admit, to wit, that the social and political history of the United States has been driven largely by a peculiar religiosity that in time made Americanism itself into a civic religion....His zesty, irreverent narratives teach more history to more people than all the post-modernist theorists, highbrow critics and dons put together." — Walter A. McDougall

"A fresh, readable and provocative survey. . . . Johnson can be very wise." — Los Angeles Times

"Masterly—readable, intelligent and, depending on your point of view, either annoyingly or endearingly cranky." — Newsweek

"Arresting contentions and pieces of fascinating oddball information. . . . The book also offers a rare opportunity to witness someone trying to make sense of all 400 years of American history and to discover what 'tremendous lessons' it holds for Americans and 'the rest of mankind.'" — New York Times Book Review

"His zesty, irreverent narratives teach more history to more people than all the post-modernist theorists, highbrow critics and dons put together." — Times Literary Supplement

"This is vivid and memorable writing...Proves that history can still be literature." — National Review

Product Details

• ISBN: 9780060930349
• ISBN 10: 0060930349
• Imprint: Harper Perennial
• On Sale: 02/17/1999
• Trimsize: 5.310 in (w) x 8.000 in (h) x 1.760 in (d)
• Pages: 1104
• List Price: $24.99
• BISAC1 : HISTORY / United States / General
• BISAC2 : POLITICAL SCIENCE / American Government / General
• BISAC3 : SOCIAL SCIENCE / Anthropology / Cultural & Social