The Book That Changed America
The Book That Changed America
Book Brief
304
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1850s
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Book That Changed America by Randall Fuller examines how Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species challenged entrenched beliefs about racial superiority linked to justifications for slavery, influencing abolitionist arguments and sparking significant political and social shifts in pre-Civil War America, including debates among intellectuals like Henry David Thoreau. The book also discusses the pervasive and brutal impact of slavery.
Informative
Contemplative
Inspirational
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Randall Fuller's The Book That Changed America skillfully explores the impact of Darwin's ideas on pre-Civil War America. Critics appreciate the vivid historical context and engaging narrative but note that the focus sometimes strays from the central theme. Overall, it's praised for its insightful analysis and relevance to understanding intellectual history.
Who Should Read The Book That Changed America?
A reader who enjoys The Book That Changed America by Randall Fuller likely has a keen interest in American history, particularly the Civil War era, and intellectual history. This audience may appreciate works such as Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin and The Metaphysical Club by Louis Menand.
606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Book That Changed America by Randall Fuller explores the profound impact of Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species on American thought, science, and culture during the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War.
Fuller delves into how Darwin's work was discussed in intellectual circles in Concord, Massachusetts, sparking debates among notable figures such as Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
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The book provides a glimpse into how the theory of evolution influenced not just scientific communities but also intersected with the abolitionist movement in the United States.
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304
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1850s
2017
Adult
18+ years
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