In "History of the United States, Vol. II: Conflict & Independence," Charles Austin Beard provides a comprehensive account of the American Revolution and the tumultuous events that shaped the birth of a new nation. The book is a meticulously researched and detailed examination of the political, social, and economic conflicts that led to the Declaration of Independence and the subsequent revolution.

Beard's writing is clear and engaging, making complex historical events accessible to readers of all backgrounds. His analysis is insightful and thought-provoking, challenging readers to rethink their understanding of American history and the founding ideals of the nation. The book also explores the role of key figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin in shaping the course of American history.

Overall, "Conflict & Independence" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the origins of the United States and the principles upon which the nation was built. Beard's scholarly approach and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for students, scholars, and history enthusiasts alike.

Book Description:

Charles Beard was the most influential American historian of the early 20th century. He published hundreds of monographs, textbooks and interpretive studies in both history and political science. He graduated from DePauw University in 1898, where he met and eventually married Mary Ritter Beard, one of the founders of the first greek-letter society for women, Kappa Alpha Theta. Many of his books were written in collaboration with his wife, whose own interests lay in feminism and the labor union movement.

In 1921, Charles and Mary Beard published their textbook: History of the United States. A contemporaneous review stated: The authors… assume enough maturity in…students to justify a topical rather than a chronological treatment. They have dealt with movements, have sketched large backgrounds, have traced causes, and have discussed the interrelation of social and economic forces and politics. All this has been directed to the large purpose of helping the student to understand American today in all its national characteristics and as part of world civilization as well..The literary style is exceptionally clear and crisp, and the whole approach…is thought producing. As a textbook or handbook for the average citizen it ranks with very best.

The book is divided into 7 parts: THE COLONIAL PERIOD, CONFLICT AND INDEPENDENCE, FOUNDATIONS OF THE UNION AND NATIONAL POLITICS, THE WEST AND JACKSONIAN DEMOCRACY, SECTIONAL CONFLICT AND RECONSTRUCTION, NATIONAL GROWTH AND WORLD POLITICS, AND PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRACY AND THE WORLD WAR.