Author Description

Drawn from Gale’s acclaimed Reference Library products, this concise study guide helps you explore central ideas of primary sources in their historical context. Profiles of the authors and surrounding events; timelines and images; engaging research, discussion and activity ideas; “Did you know?” facts; and additional features make this guide valuable for students and lifelong learners. Primary sources covered: Benjamin Franklin's letter to Thomas Cushing, Public Statement on the Hutchinson Letters and “An Edict by the King of Prussia”; and excerpts from Edmund Burke’s “On Conciliation"; the first of the Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania to the Inhabitants of the British Colonies by John Dickinson; Thomas Jefferson’s “A Summary View of the Rights of British America”; Patrick Henry’s "Give me liberty, or give me death!" speech; Thomas Paine’s Common Sense; and King George’s “A Proclamation by the King for Suppressing Rebellion and Sedition.”