Search

The article looks at the role of fire and arson in the final period and ending of slavery in the United States. It discusses the historical evidence for slaves setting many fires in the southern states as a form of rebellion against slavery, looking closely at fires in Charleston, South Carolina, and New Orleans, Louisiana, in the period 1830-1860. Fire as a weapon of war in the U.S. Civil War is also discussed.

This article examines America's history of mob violence and gambling. The author contends societies' reaction to gambling was a manifestation of the socioeconomic fears generated by capitalism. Throughout the antebellum period mob violence plagued many parts of the United States and was often initiated by the upper classes who considered themselves moral guardians of the community. One incident in Vicksburg, Mississippi in 1835 is described and analyzed as both unique and representative of the general social unease of the era.

This article examines how the growth of northern urban centers in the U.S. coincided with the first major fuel crisis in American history. The author explores how firewood shortages impacted individuals living in the cities of Boston, Massachusetts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and New York City. Poor individuals living in these cities were impacted more severely by sudden increases in the price of firewood due to supply shortages. The author examines the efforts of several organizations that attempted to combat fuel shortages by urging U.S. citizens to adopt coal as a heating source. The author discusses how the fuel market provided information on the consumption patterns of Americans and also exposed class differences in the country.

Examines the political and social implications of diversity in the United States. Comparison of the American experience of diversity with countries that have experienced a similar albeit lesser degree of diversity; Discussion on the common notion of Euro-Americans on racial diversity; Analysis on the views from notable writers on the ideas of multiculturalism and ethnic relations.

Presents information on teenage populism in the U.S. from 1900 to 1960, with regard to high school fraternities and sororities. Speculations on the origin of the societies; Reaction of several states to the groups; Types of conflict impulses identified with the societies.

Presents information on the conflict of legislatures in the creation of the U.S. revolution. Factors which brought about the conflict; Role of taxation in the revolution; Characteristics of the 18th century Anglo-American society.