
Gerry, Elbridge, -- 1744-1814.
What role did Elbridge Gerry play in the formation of the American republic, and how did his political philosophy shape the early United States? George Athan Billias, a historian specializing in early American constitutionalism, examines the life of Elbridge Gerry to clarify his contributions as a signer of the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation. The author utilizes primary source documents, including personal correspondence and legislative records, to argue that Gerry was a principled republican statesman whose influence on the Constitution and the early federal government has been historically undervalued. The text provides a comprehensive analysis of Gerry's transition from a revolutionary radical to a cautious defender of institutional stability.
What You Will Find
Scope Limits
Historians recognize this work as the definitive scholarly biography of Elbridge Gerry, noting its meticulous research and objective tone. Experts frequently cite this text as a foundational resource for understanding the political nuances of the early American republic and the development of the two-party system.
Page Count:
442
Publication Date:
1976-01-01
Publisher:
McGraw-Hill
ISBN-10:
0070052697
ISBN-13:
9780070052697
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