Showing results by author "Henry Brooks Adams" in All Categories

Henry Adams, the enigmatic author behind Democracy, unveiled his literary prowess posthumously in 1918. Originally released in 1880 to widespread acclaim, the novel transports readers to Washington in the 1870s, during the presidencies of Grant and Hayes. At its heart is Madeleine Lee, a wealthy and independent young widow who leaves her life in New York to delve into the political landscape of the capital. As she navigates the complex world of power and influence, she encounters Senator Silas P. Ratcliffe, a formidable and somewhat uncultured politician eyeing the presidency, who believes Mrs...

Explore the captivating journey of Bostonian Henry Adams as he grapples with the transformative changes of the early 20th century, a stark contrast to his youthful days. This insightful work offers a keen critique of the 19th-century education system, revealing its flaws and limitations. Originally, Adams privately circulated limited copies in 1907, funded from his own pocket. It wasn’t until his death in 1918 that the book was commercially published and subsequently awarded the 1919 Pulitzer Prize.