City-State of Boston: The Rise and Fall of an Atlantic Power, 1630-1865

Before being incorporated into the United States, Boston was a self-governing city-state in New England. Mark Peterson's book explores how Boston lost its integrity and autonomy as it became part of the United States, highlighting its overlooked past as an autonomous entity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 784 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press

In the esteemed chronicles of the United States' inception, Boston has long been revered as an exemplar of a "city upon a hill" and the "cradle of liberty." However, the prevailing narratives surrounding this illustrious metropolis have often clouded its historical truth. The City-State of Boston seeks to rectify this by shedding light on Boston's overlooked past as an autonomous city-state. Through a comprehensive exploration spanning three centuries, author Mark Peterson delves into the origins of this self-governing Atlantic trading hub, which emerged as a sanctuary from the Stuart monarchs of Britain. He further explores how, as Boston entered into agreements with the slave trade and ratified the Constitution, it tragically relinquished its integrity and autonomy, ultimately becoming integrated into the greater United States.

By meticulously peeling away layers of myth and misconception, The City-State of Boston presents a startlingly fresh perspective on this iconic urban center. This groundbreaking work of history offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of early America, challenging long-held assumptions and illuminating the complex tapestry of this nation's origins.

Weight: 1108g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691209173