If I were to sell the reader a barrel of molasses, and he, instead of sweetening his substantial dinner with the same at judicious intervals, should eat the entire barrel at one sitting, and then abuse me for making him sick, I would say that he deserved to be made sick for not knowing any better how to utilize the blessings this world affords. And if I sell to the reader this volume of nonsense, and he, instead of seasoning his graver reading with...

Strong Voices: Fifteen American Speeches Worth Knowing is a collection of significant speeches, made both by those who held the reins of power and those who didn't, at significant times in American history. Read the original words-sometimes abridged and sometimes in their entirety-that have shaped our cultural fabric. Introductions by acclaimed writer Tonya Bolden provide historical context and critical insights to the meaning and impact of every...

"Over the course of his distinguished career, David McCullough has spoken before Congress, the White House, colleges and universities, historical societies, and other esteemed institutions. Now, as many Americans engage in self-reflection following a bitter election campaign that has left the country divided, McCullough has collected some of his most important speeches in a brief volume that articulates important principles and characteristics that...

"Give me liberty," demanded Patrick Henry, "or give me death!" Henry's words continue to echo in American history and that quote, and the speech it comes from, remains one of the two or three known to almost every American. The other speeches that have become part of our American collective consciousness all have one theme in common: liberty. These feats of oration seem to trace the evolution of America's definition of liberty, and who it applies...

"This is a book that changed history. Derided as 'Silent Cal,' Calvin Coolidge was one of the finest writers ever to occupy the Oval Office. In fact, this remarkable book played a vital role in getting him there. Published in 1919, when Coolidge served as governor of Massachusetts, Have Faith in Massachusetts made a splash across the country. One delegate to the 1920 Republican National Convention was so impressed with the book that he nominated Coolidge...

This title explores the creative works of US President Abraham Lincoln. Works analyzed include his "A House Divided" speech, the Gettysburg Address, and his first and second inaugural addresses. Clear, comprehensive text gives background biographical information of Lincoln. The "You Critique It" feature invites readers to analyze other creative works on their own. A table of contents, timeline, list of works, resources, source notes, glossary, and...

"In honor of the fiftieth anniversary of Robert Kennedy's death, an inspiring collection of his most famous speeches accompanied by commentary from notable historians and public figures. Twenty-five years after Robert Kennedy was assassinated, RFK: Collected Speeches, a celebration of Kennedy's life and legacy, was published and immediately became the standard for activists, elected officials, and lovers of language and history. Now, a quarter century...

Let Every Nation Know is the first book of its kind-a historical biography in Kennedy's own words. Combining a remarkable audio CD of Kennedy's most famous speeches, debates and press conferences with the insights of two of America's preeminent historians, the result is a unique look at the world-changing words and presidency of John F. Kennedy.