The Loyalists of America and Their Times, Vol. 1 of 2. From 1620-1816 By: Egerton Ryerson (1803-1882) |
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"The Loyalists of America and Their Times" is an insightful and meticulously researched historical account by Egerton Ryerson, offering readers a profound exploration into the lives and struggles of a significant yet often overlooked group of individuals - the Loyalists. Spanning from 1620 to 1816, this two-volume masterpiece shines a light on the experiences, motivations, and impact of those who sided with the British Crown during the American Revolution.
Ryerson's writing style is captivating and engaging, making this scholarly work accessible even to non-historians. The author's dedication to detail is evident in the extensive research and numerous primary sources, which he seamlessly weaves into the narrative. By incorporating letters, diaries, and official records, Ryerson breathes life into the book, transporting readers back to the tumultuous times during the revolution and its immediate aftermath.
One of the book's notable strengths is its comprehensive approach. Ryerson carefully presents the stories not only of the well-known Loyalist figures but also of the average colonists who chose to remain loyal to the British Crown. This inclusivity allows readers to grasp the wide-ranging motives behind their decision to maintain allegiance and how this loyalty shaped their lives amidst a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.
The author provides a balanced perspective, skillfully highlighting the complex and often conflicting factors that influenced the Loyalists' choices. Whether it was a matter of political ideology, socioeconomic interests, cultural ties, fear of persecution, or personal beliefs, Ryerson expertly navigates through this intricate web of motivations, painting a multifaceted portrait of these loyal citizens.
Furthermore, "The Loyalists of America and Their Times" delves into the repercussions faced by the Loyalists after the American Revolution. The book explores their flight from the newly established United States to various parts of British North America, examining the challenges they encountered while resettling and rebuilding their lives. This aspect brings to light the intriguing interplay between loyalty, displacement, identity, and the diverse experiences these individuals underwent.
While Ryerson's work is impressively expansive, it occasionally suffers from a dense and prolonged exposition of historical contexts and events. This scholarly approach may not suit all readers, particularly those seeking a lighter or more narrative-driven journey through history. Nevertheless, the abundant details and meticulous interpretations will undoubtedly satisfy enthusiasts and scholars who crave a comprehensive understanding of this crucial period.
"The Loyalists of America and Their Times, Vol. 1 of 2. From 1620-1816" is an invaluable contribution to the study of American history, shedding light on a pivotal yet underexplored topic. Egerton Ryerson's rich prose and in-depth research bring the stories of the Loyalists to life, giving a voice to those who have long been overshadowed in conventional historical narratives. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of the American Revolution and the multifaceted individuals who played a significant role. THE LOYALISTS OF AMERICA AND THEIR TIMES: FROM 1620 TO 1816. BY EGERTON RYERSON, D.D., LL.D., Chief Superintendent of Education for Upper Canada from 1844 to 1876. IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. TORONTO: WILLIAM BRIGGS, 80 KING STREET EAST; JAMES CAMPBELL & SON, AND WILLING & WILLIAMSON. MONTREAL: DAWSON BROTHERS. 1880. ENTERED, according to the Act of the Parliament of Canada, in the year One thousand eight hundred and eighty, by the REV. EGERTON RYERSON, D.D., LL.D., in the Office of the Minister of Agriculture. PREFACE. As no Indian pen has ever traced the history of the aborigines of America, or recorded the deeds of their chieftains, their "prowess and their wrongs" their enemies and spoilers being their historians; so the history of the Loyalists of America has never been written except by their enemies and spoilers, and those English historians who have not troubled themselves with examining original authorities, but have adopted the authorities, and in some instances imbibed the spirit, of American historians, who have never tired in eulogizing Americans and everything American, and deprecating everything English, and all who have loyally adhered to the unity of the British Empire. I have thought that the other side of the story should be written; or, in other words, the true history of the relations, disputes, and contests between Great Britain and her American colonies and the United States of America... Continue reading book >>
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