Famous Men of the United States

Philadelphia: Loomis & Peck; printer: Smith and Peters, 1848. Hardcover. Very Good. 48mo - over 3 - 4" tall. 191 pp. miniature book intended for young adult or juvenile audience, featuring short biographies of patriots, heroes, political leaders, artists, military commanders, etc., predominantly of the early American Republic, with full page plate of simple line drawing of each luminary. Covered are Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, William Penn, John Hancock, Patrick Henry, General Putnam, John Adams, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, Roger Williams, Colonel Trumbull, General Wayne, Aaron Burr, Commodore Decatur, Robert Fulton, James Madison, James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, Martin van Buren, General Harrison, John Tyler, Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, Nicholas Biddle, Stephen Girard, De Witt Clinton, General Marion, Elik Whitney, John Jacob Astor, James K. Polk, Benjamin West, Commodore Macdonough, Commodore Perry, Commodore Hull, General Greene, Gen. Warren, Comm. Bainbridge, Alexander Hamilton, Sgt. Jasper, John Champe, Robert Morris, Nathan Hale, and Gen. Stark. A charming relic that provides insight into mainstream thought and attitudes about these men and also how history was packaged for the young. In essence an early example of non-fiction literature specifically targeting youth. Gilt of blindstamped figure of Washington on front board faded, and gilt decoration and lettering of spine more or less obliterated. Slight cock to text block. A few leaves with stain marks. But overall text and plates clean and book is tight and attractive. New endpapers. Early owner's name inscribed into preliminary blank. A very good copy.