The American Revolution: Explorations in the History of American Radicalism

by Alfred F. Young (Editor)

The eleven original essays presented here serve to enlarge the canvas upon which American history is to be portrayed so that it will allow—or more deliberately, give more prominence to—those groups at the bottom of colonial society to gain more equitable visibility. The effect is a striking view of the Revolution that provides not only a much-needed perspective on the role of minority groups in an era of social upheaval but also presents a panorama of such complexity and vitality that American history itself becomes more meaningful and more exciting than anything we have heretofore imagined.

Genres: History, American Revolution, Nonfiction

496 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1976

About the author

Alfred F. "Al" Young was a pioneering American historian known for reshaping the study of the American Revolution by centering it on the lives and experiences of ordinary people. Born in New York City in 1925, Young’s early academic influences at Queens College and Columbia University helped develop his focus on working-class history. He earned his PhD from Northwestern University in 1958 and later taught for 25 years at Northern Illinois University, where he became a leading voice in social and political history.
Young’s landmark work, The Democratic Republicans of New York, earned the Jamestown Prize and established his reputation. He was a staunch advocate for academic freedom during the Vietnam War era, defending scholars facing political retaliation. After retiring from teaching, he expanded his scholarship at Chicago’s Newberry Library, authoring influential works like The Shoemaker and the Tea Party and Masquerade, which explored lesser-known Revolutionary figures.
In 2004, Young helped found Labor: Studies in Working-Class History of the Americas, further solidifying his legacy. He died in 2012 at the age of 87, remembered for his deep commitment to elevating the voices of everyday people in historical narratives.

Reviews

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, the American Revolution WAS a Revolution, full of class-based violence and radicalism. Al Young reclaims it all for you. Well-written but definitely an academic read.

[Scott Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chapters presenting unique and unexpected facets of Revolutionary ideology from those experiencing the conflict from various local communities.

[Todd Ligas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great selection of essay's on the American Revolution that focus on the "importance of class...the active role played by common people in shaping the events...and the impact of radicalism."