What Is America?

What Is America? examines the foundations and evolution of American power through a historical lens. The book traces the path from early European colonization through the formation of the United States and its emergence as a global superpower. Ronald Wright builds on his previous work in A Short History of Progress, analyzing how the "Columbian Age" - the period following European contact with the Americas - shaped modern geopolitical dynamics. The text explores the complex relationships between Native Americans, European settlers, and the emerging American nation. The book investigates key moments in American history while examining the development of American political institutions, economic systems, and social structures. Wright incorporates archaeological evidence, historical documents, and scholarly research to construct his analysis. The work presents a critical examination of American exceptionalism and imperial power, raising questions about national identity and the roots of contemporary American influence in world affairs.

Readers describe this as a well-researched examination of American history and myths through an outsider's perspective. The book analyzes colonization, expansion, and empire-building while questioning American exceptionalism. Readers liked: - Clear documentation of sources - Strong historical parallels between past and present - Canadian/external viewpoint on US history - Writing style that balances academic rigor with accessibility Common criticisms: - Anti-American bias in tone and conclusions - Spends too much time on pre-colonial history - Some repetition of points from Wright's previous works - Selective use of historical examples Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (217 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (26 ratings) "A refreshing perspective from outside the US bubble," noted one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads critic countered that it "reads like a polemic rather than analysis."

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🔍 The book draws inspiration from Wright's CBC Massey Lectures, a prestigious Canadian lecture series that has featured prominent thinkers since 1961. 🌎 The term "Columbian Age" references the profound global changes triggered by Columbus's voyages, which created lasting connections between previously isolated continents. 📚 Ronald Wright has authored ten books, including the bestseller "A Short History of Progress," which won the Libris Award and inspired Martin Scorsese's documentary "Surviving Progress." 🗽 The book examines how the myth of "American exceptionalism" emerged from early Puritan beliefs about creating a "City upon a Hill" - a concept first articulated by John Winthrop in 1630. 🌿 Wright's background as an archaeologist and historian enables him to connect pre-Columbian American civilizations to modern environmental and social challenges facing the continent.