Retrospect of Western Travel

A detailed account of nineteenth century American society resulting from two years of extensive travel and research.

Harriet Martineau (Author)

9781108019286, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 2 September 2010

332 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.9 cm, 0.42 kg

Harriet Martineau (1802–1876) was a British writer and scholar who can be described as one of the first British sociologists. She was one of the first social theorists to examine all aspects of a society, including social class, religion, national character and the status of women. After the death of her fiancé Martineau published articles on economics and taxation before embarking on a two year tour of the United States in 1834. She immersed herself in American society, visiting both Houses of Congress along with prisons, hospitals and literary and scientific institutions. These volumes contain a description of her travels through America. Written in the form of a travel book, Martineau's sharp powers of observation provide not only a vivid description of America but also insights into the construction of nineteenth century American society. Volume 1 contains her travels from New York to Washington D.C.

1. The voyage
2. First impressions
3. The Hudson
4. Pine Orchard House
5. Weddings
6. High road travelling
7. Fort Erie
8. Niagara
9. Priestley
10. Prisons
11. First sight of slavery
12. Life at Washington
13. The Capitol
14. Mount Vernon.

Subject Areas: History of the Americas [HBJK]