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The Shortest History of the United States of America

Brief Description
A compelling history of the world's most powerful country from acclaimed author Don Watson. The Shortest History of the United States of America is the extraordinary story of the United States, a nation that contains multitudes. When Britain's thirteen American colonies declared their independence on 4... Read More
Format: Hardback
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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A compelling history of the world's most powerful country from acclaimed author Don Watson.

The Shortest History of the United States of America is the extraordinary story of the United States, a nation that contains multitudes.

When Britain's thirteen American colonies declared their independence on 4 July 1776, the United States of America was born. But it was hardly united. In this superbly written book, Don Watson traces how the central conflicts of the USβ€”those over freedom, race, frontiers, enterprise, religion, and violenceβ€”play out through its history. A country at war with itself in the 1860s, the leader of the free world less than a hundred years later, and a nation beset by wild division and turmoil in the twenty-first century.

This is a book full of character and humour, told with great learning and insightβ€”a perfect introduction to America, past and present.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781760643942

Publisher: Black Inc.

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 18 November 2025

Country: Australia

Imprint: Black Inc.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 1.0mm

Width: 1.0mm

Height: 1.0mm

Weight: 1g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Don Watson is the author of two previous Quarterly Essays and many acclaimed books, including Caledonia Australis, Recollections of a Bleeding Heart, American Journeys, The Bush, Watsonia, The Story of Australia and The Passion of Private White.

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