Science in Colonial America

Science of the Past

by Brendan January

Describes the scientific contributions made by people in colonial America, including natural history, medicine, astronomy, and electricity.

Genres: History, Science, Nonfiction

64 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1999

About the author

Brendan January has an A.B. from Haverford College and an M.S. in Journalism from Columbia University. He has written numerous nonfiction titles for young readers.

Reviews

[JayD · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is ninety percent a beautifully written explanation of science during the Age of Enlightenment, spoiled only by one persistent problem. For some reason the author is determined to prove that America, and only America, was responsible for all scientific discoveries. Europeans are portrayed as backward, superstitious and ignorant in contrast to the democratic and practical Americans. Indeed, Europeans only appear when they are giving awards and showing adulation to Americans, although a small hat tip is given to Africans and Native Americans. At some point this becomes annoying, as well as depriving the student of relevant historical knowledge.

[Andrea Renfrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic homeschool resource for the history of science in colonial America. Because we follow a classical model we repeat our studies in chronological order along the timeline of the world and re-read this gem every time we cover the American revolution.

[Julia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a GREAT science series for young children! The books have biographical and historical stories of science. This is not a book of experiments, but can inspire ideas for experiments. Short, sweet, well-written and interesting!