Monday 8 December 2008Finding the real people who made American history

Discovering American History in England: An illustrated traveler’s guide, published by Giles in February 2008, is a widely-researched combination of historical biography, tour guide and reference book

The history of the United States has been closely tied to the United Kingdom. English explorers and colonists established settlements that eventually developed into a new nation where English culture, education, religion and law formed the foundations of society. Footprints of early explorers, settlers and revolutionaries of America can still be found in many parts of England – in castles and stately homes, in mighty cathedrals and village churches, in small towns, landscape gardens and ancient colleges. The traces of these significant lives are widely overlooked by travellers. For example Thomas Paine, author of Common Sense, which helped incite revolt in the American Colonies, was born in Thetford, Norfolk and lived for several years in Lewes, East Sussex, where he developed many of his radical political ideals. Benjamin Franklin’s home at 36 Craven Street in London served as the de facto American embassy. Here he eventually came to recognize himself as an “American”. Historic figures like Paine and Franklin fascinate author and historian Catherine Leitch, an American who has lived in England for 12 years. During this time she has compiled anecdotes, maps and descriptions of the often-surprising connections between English and American culture.

This brand new book opens with an historical overview of England and America, before presenting twelve chapters which focus on real people and places and why they are important in American history. Beginning with the exploration of the New World with the foundation of Virginia, the East India Company and the voyages of Henry Hudson and Captain Cook, progressing through the birth of American Independence the author then explores military and political connections, American heiresses, founders and philanthropists, academia, science and industry and creative and performing artists Not just a repetition of the familiar names and dates, this extensive survey covers as many notable connections as possible.

Designed preeminently to be an accessible travel companion, each of the sections contains illustrated entries for key people, together with a list of places connected to the person that can be visited. These places are listed in the Gazetteer of London and England which follows. Special “side-bars” also feature information on major buildings and cities with connections to America.

With its lively and informative text and beautiful colour images, this book will inspire readers to learn about the Britons who have had a defining influence on America, and also about those Americans who travelled eastward across the Atlantic to make a lasting contribution to the culture of Britain.

The Author:
Catherine Leitch is an historian born in the United States. She earned a Masters degree at Vanderbilt University and has taught history in the U.S. For the past 12 years she has lived in England, and currently lives in London with her family.

DISCOVERING AMERICAN HISTORY
An illustrated traveler’s guide

296 pages, 6 ¼” x 9 ½” (241 x 160mm)
250 colour illustrations, including 2 maps, paperback
Text: Up to words
ISBN: 978 1 904832 38 6 (13 digit)
ISBN: 1 904832 38 5 (10 digit)

Price: US$39.95/UK£19.95
Publication date: February 2008
Publisher: D. Giles Limited, London

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For Further Information and Review Copies:
In the UK contact:
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