by John Fiske 1888. 368p

"The Thirteen Commonwealths" provides a detailed examination of the political history of the United States from the Revolutionary War to the adoption of the Federal Constitution. It highlights the evolution of governance in the newly formed states, focusing on the challenges of slavery, the varying approaches to emancipation, and the political dynamics between American leaders and British officials. The book serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the foundational principles and events that shaped the early years of the United States, emphasizing the significance of state constitutions and the complexities of political power during this transformative period.