First Person American: The Story of America Through Speeches, Confessions, Testimonies, and Love Letters

Voices in a great, diverse chorus make up American history. This curated collection from real people in the past writing about events that still impact us today brings an immediacy and a poignancy to history. This book includes readings, in their own writing and in their own right, from Native American heroes fighting to preserve their culture, African American rebels refusing to be minimized by slavery and oppression, women defying stereotypes, Civil War soldiers and their parents, freed slaves, inventors, explorers, Founders, immigrants, critics, fans, presidents, and celebrated Americans such as Sojourner Truth, Thomas Edison, Mark Twain, and others. Dozens of love letters, confessions, and journal entries that present a humorous and more human side of American history. This beautifully designed, fun to read book is an ideal gift for students and anyone who cares about the heart and soul of America.