In "The Story of Liberty (Illustrated Edition)," Charles Carleton Coffin embarks on a sweeping historical narrative that traces the evolution of liberty in America, offering a rich blend of storytelling and factual exposition. Coffin employs a vivid literary style, interweaving anecdotes and illustrations that engage readers, particularly the younger audience he often addressed. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century America, the book examines significant events, figures, and ideologies that shaped the quest for freedom, making complex themes accessible and resonant within its contemporary socio-political context. Coffin, a prominent journalist and historian, was deeply influenced by the tumultuous political landscape of his time, particularly the Civil War and burgeoning debates surrounding slavery and civil rights. His experience as a correspondent and his passion for American history informed his writing, fostering an earnest and, at times, impassioned advocacy for liberty and justice. His dedication to education and enlightenment is evident in his mission to inspire future generations through stories of courage, struggle, and the triumph of liberty. This illustrated edition of "The Story of Liberty" is a compelling read for anyone interested in the foundations of American democracy. It not only serves as a classroom resource but also as a profound exploration of the ideals of freedom that continue to resonate today. Coffin's work is both a tribute to the sacrifices made for liberty and a call to preserve it, making it a timeless addition to the literary canon.
This book was written in 1879 and reflects a common intrepratation of English history at the time. Indeed, it is very similar to the view the founding fathers took of the events covered in this history. All too often, it is assumed that modern interpretations of history are somehow objective and unbiased. All historians write from their worldview, and there is nothing that says a naturalist/atheistic perspective is somehow more valid than the perspective that God directs that events of history for a purpose. The latter view is much closer to what was held by many of the people (Reformers, Pilgrims, & Catholics) that this history is about, and therefore, in my opinion, is capable of a deeper understanding of the motivation of these people to act against injustice. It is by reading books written by people in ages other than our own that we gain the perspective necessary to analize our own cultures assumptions and beliefs.
The Story of Liberty
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
I read this for pleasure, not for home schooling. It was outstanding! A fast and easy read, easily relating together the events over the past 700 years. Cofing clearly illustrates the slow struggle of the human race towards freedom ... tieing events together in a literary time-line. With such a clear conception of the tyrrants of the past, one can't help but draw parallels with contemporary tyrrants. I wish I had read this when I was in school. I am recommending it to all of my friends.
History for Homeschooling
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Despite what others may have said about this book's qualities regarding homeschooling it remains one of THE best books on the foundation of American culture. The author attempted and succeeded to remain unbiased when writing upon matters of religion (i.e. Roman Catholic Church vs. Protestant Church). However, the obvious wrong done by the Roman Catholic Church during the Roman Inquisition (not just the Spanish) is made quite clear. Yet the author does not leave the Protestant church without some blame, for they did promote violence, wars, and some measure of persecution. The book does accomplish its goal by making the reader understand what liberty is and what it has cost. No homeschooling Christian (or otherwise) child should be without this book.
A great page-turner of a history book!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
While the perspective in this book seems decidedly Protestant, Coffin's focus is on the progress of men out of the stifling opression of freedom in the dark ages (esp.by the Catholic Church)to the freedom we may take for granted today. He tells the stories of various people who were willing to give up everything for the principle of freedom of thought. On the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre- "Catherine hastens to Charles' chamber once more. He is sitting in a chair, moody, angry, silent. He has acquiesced in the plan until now; but as the hour for its consummation approaches, is irresolute. It will be so mean to have the old admiral, and others who hace confided in his word, assassinated. Poor weakling that he is, there is still left a little of his better nature. The education that he has received from his mother - that the end always justifies the means - the school of falsehood in which he has been taught, has not quite obliterated all sense of what is right and honorable."This book reads like a novel, not a history book. It is such a page turner that my children wore out one copy and have begun on another!
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