Celebrating the Fourth: Independence Day and the Rites of Nationalism in the Early Republic [ILLUSTRATED] (Hardcover)

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Editorial Reviews

Review

This book is well constructed and nicely written, displaying deep, solid research. Not only should it appeal to specialists in the period, but it is likely to be read by scholars in American studies and folklore. The straightforward approach, rich documentation, and nice vignettes and anecdotes will make this a book with good general readership. -- Matthew Dennis, University of Oregon

Product Description

In "Celebrating the Fourth" Len Travers traces the origins and functions of the quintesssential American holiday from the first festivals in 1777 to the Jubilee of Independence in 1826. Applying anthropological analyses of social rituals, he skillfully explicates the rich symbolic content of such activities as processions, banquets and entertainments. By examining Fourth of July celebrations in Boston, Philadelphia and Charleston, he is able to discuss the interplay between local/regional and national identities and interests. Travers's thoughtful and perceptive decipherings of Independence Day celebrations make a significant contribution to our understanding of the importance of ritual in early republican political culture. This work should appeal to historians, social scientists, folklorists and general readers alike.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 278 pages
• Publisher: University of Massachusetts Press; illustrated edition edition (February 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1558490604
• ISBN-13: 978-1558490604
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.3 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
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• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,217,914 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)