Firsthand History

Firsthand History: Jefferson's America to The Civil War 1801-1865 gathers diaries, letters, biographies, and narratives by eyewitnesses and participants of key events in United States history based on three pamphlets originally published as Voices from America's Past (The Jeffersonians 1801-1829, Jacksonian Democracy 1829-1848, and A House Divided 1850-1865). Selections are lightly introduced by the editors to provide background and context. Jefferson's America to The Civil War 1801-1865, the second volume in the series, includes a report by the physician who attended the duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton, dispatches sent during the Fall of the Alamo, Samuel F. B. Morse's recollections of sending the first telegraph, and an account by Lincoln's Secretary of the Navy of the night Lincoln was assassinated. This thought-provoking, slender compendium presents the raw stuff of the past-essential reading for enthusiasts and students of history.