From the Age of Discovery to a World at War

America: The Last Best Hope #1

by William J. Bennett

To resce the future, we must remember our past.

With command and wit, William J. Bennett reacquaints Americans with their heritage in an engaging narrative that cuts through the cobwebs of time, memory, and prevailing cynicism. Washington, Franklin, Lincoln, Roosevelt, and others reemerge not as marble icons or dust-dry names in a textbook, but as full-blooded, heroic pioneers whose far-reaching vision forged a nation that attracted―that still attracts―millions yearning to breathe free. In this, the first volume of a "reasoned, balanced presentation of the American story," Bennett tells our nation's story, with all its triumphs and tragedies. He summons us to embrace America's cause once again as "the last best hope of earth."

What others are saying:

"William J. Bennett artfully and subtly makes connections between our past and current events, reminding us ... that we are intimately and immediately connected to the extraordinary Americans who have bestowed upon us our great heritage.... [T]he importance of "America: The Last Best Hope" probably exceeds anything Dr. Bennett has ever written, and it is more elegantly crafted and eminently readable than any comprehensive work of history I've read in a very long time. It's silly to compare great works of history to great novels, but this book truly is a page-turner.... Prepare to have your faith in, hope for, and love of America renewed."
-Brad Miner, American Compass

"The Role of history is to inform, inspire, and sometimes provoke us, which is why Bill Bennett's wonderfully readable book is so important. He puts our nation's triumphs, along with its lapses, into the context of a narrative about the progress of freedom. Every now and then it's useful to be reminded that we are a fortunate people, blessed with generations of leaders who repeatedly renewed the meaning of America."
-Walter Isaacson, "Benjamin Franklin: An American Life"

"For too long Americans have been looking for a history of our country that tells the story of America's triumphs as well as its tragedies. Now Bill Bennett has come forward with "America: The Last Best Hope," which tells the story-fairly and fully-from 1492 to 1914. Americans who have been reading recent biographies of the Founding Fathers will love this book."
-Michael Barone, "US News & World Report"

"Bill Bennett's book will stand as perhaps the most important addition to American scholarship at this, the start of the new century. For the past fifty years American historians have either distorted American history or reduced it to a mess of boring indictments of our cultural and political heritage. With this book Bennett offers to Americans young and old an exciting and enjoyable history of what makes America the greatest nation on earth.
-Brian Kennedy, president, The Claremont Institute

Genres: History, Nonfiction, American History, Politics, Historical, American, War

573 pages, Hardcover

First published April 26, 2006

About the author

William J. "Bill" Bennett is a politician and author who served in the Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush administrations, as chief of National Endowment for the Humanities and later Secretary of Education under Reagan, and Drug Czar under Bush. He is a nationally well-known figure of political and social conservatism and authored many books on politics, ethics, and international relations.

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book sets out to inspire Americans with their own history and to be an antidote to school textbooks that dredge out with tedious boredom and leave many with contempt for the subject. In this regard, this book excels amazingly. I was the kid that begrudgingly sat through school history classes and only kept enough mundane facts in my head long enough to make my A and be on with my life. The dates of the war were such and such, slavery was bad, this Columbus guy mistakenly found the place, etc. My grasp of history as a whole is shockingly inadequate to say the least. And did I mention I also hate politics? This book actually made me interested in all this stuff. And trust me, that's saying quite a lot. It sparked so much interest in me that not only did it leave me looking forward to getting a chance to read more of the book, but also interested in getting a hold of other books on the subjects. The great part about this book is that yes, it covers America's numerous faults over the years (as all textbooks do), but it also covers the great achievements and ideas that America and her people have brought forward. My step-dad sort of forced me into borrowing this book from him almost a year ago, and I didn't think I'd enjoy it so it sat for all of that time before I finally attempted it. Now I'm wishing I hadn't put it off for so long. I look forward to tackling Volume II.

[Julie Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is just what I wanted. An American history that is even-handed and thorough, yet doesn't bog me down so I can never get the overall gist (such as telling all the details of every campaign that was fought during the French-Indian wars).

Also it is so clearly written and engaging that it is my breakfast reading and I often have to hurry through my remaining routine because I was too caught up in the book to keep track of time.

A few things I have learned about American history:

• I already knew that John Paul Jones "had not yet begun to fight." What I didn't realize was that the scrappy Scotsman took the naval fight to the British during the Revolution. Yes, believe it or not, he was attacking British towns! Now that is spunk!

• An incident and quote I'd never heard: When Benjamin Franklin witnessed a hot air balloon ascension in Paris, one of the witnesses asked him what practical use it was. "The most practical man on earth answered simply: "What is the use of a new-born baby?"

• I never realized that slavery was a big issue from the founding of our country onward. I mean to say, I knew it was a big issue coming up to the Civil War, but somehow when they're teaching kids about their country's history they don't start out talking about how the Founding Fathers had to make concessions right from the start so the states would all band together into a country. Fascinating and it makes a sad underlying theme to our country's first 100 (almost) years.

• Andrew Jackson was already on my black books for his treatment of the Cherokee Nation and rejection of the Supreme Court when they tried to enforce fair treatment as per their judgment. (Didn't he coin the phrase, "You and what army." Followed by, "Oh, right. I have the army.") Then I read how he sent the country into the Panic of 1837 because of his unreasoning hatred of the Bank of the United States, followed by his destruction of same. He had to go through two secretaries of the Treasury before appointing Roger B. Taney .. who we will hear from later for further infamy. Then Jackson left Martin Van Buren holding the bag. I now only have one good thing to say about Jackson which was that the "shoot" in his eyes allowed for no breaking up of the Union, even though he was sympathetic to the slave holders.

• Frederick Douglass -- who knew this guy was such a fire eater? Wow! I knew of his famous book which is one I mean to read someday. But he's in there mixing it up, refusing to back down, even teaching President Lincoln that although a black colony in South America sounds like a progressive, good idea, it is actually just as bad as slavery since these black men are Americans and have the right to live in their homeland. He was such a brilliant logician that he'd leave no one with a leg to stand on.

• I already admired Abraham Lincoln as a hero. I now can admire his powerful intellect, diplomacy, and good heart even more. I am struck more and more by the similarities between the fight against slavery and the current day fight against abortion. I especially liked this argument from his debates with Stephen Douglas:

"Although volume upon volume has been written to prove slavery a very good thing, we never hear of the man who wishes to take the good of it by being a slave himself.

• Raised a Kansan, it was a shock to move to Texas and hear the Confederacy justified by the argument of "states' rights." This was a new idea and one I didn't cotton to. Now having raised a generation of Texans, this argument still comes up (yes folks the Civil War can still start arguments between family members). So this was fascinating and also made me laugh.

The most important aspects of the Confederate constitution were, however, less obvious. For a movement that claimed states' rights,their constitution allowed no state the right to emancipate slaves. No state could even be admitted to the Confederacy from the old Union unless it agreed to maintain slavery always. And, a stunning development: the drafters of this constitution debated and emphatically rejected a passage that would have recognized a right of a state to secede from this Confederacy.

Finished!

Such a great, engaging book and one that explains complex situations very clearly. I have the second volume ordered and am really looking forward to continuing as this book ends on the eve of the Great War.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since I love history, I thouroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading volume II. It is a good, comprehensive overview, but with small details that most people are unaware of. So many times while reading I found myself saying out loud "Really?" or "Get out, I didn't know that." I kept telling my husband little details so often that he said he doesn't need to read it because I told him all about it. I would reccomend it to anyone who likes history.

[Hilmi Isa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ini merupakan sebuah ulasan buku dwi-bahasa.
This is a bilingual book review.

Buku ini merupakan sebuah buku sejarah mengenai Amerika Syarikat. Sebenarnya,buku ini merupakan jilid atau volume pertama daripada tiga buah kesemuanya. Untuk jilid pertama ini,buku ini membincangkan dari penemuan benua Amerika,Peperangan Kemerdekaan Amerika Syarikat,Perang Saudara Amerika Syarikat dan sehinggalah pada tahun 1914 apabila Perang Dunia Pertama bermula pada tahun tersebut.
Buku ini sebenarnya lebih sesuai dibaca oleh rakyat Amerika Syarikat (AS) sendiri. Malahan,penulis buku ini sendiri menyatakan (di dalam ruangan Pendahuluan/Pengenalan) bahawa buku ini ditulis untuk rakyat AS membacanya supaya dapat membina patriotisme yang tinggi terhadap negara. Jadi,adalah tidak menghairankan kenapa buku ini ditulis dengan agak 'ringkas' dan 'padat'. Buku ini bukanlah sebuah buku yang bersifat ultimate mengenai sejarah AS. Buku ini membincangkan sejarah AS secara umum atau overview. Hal ini kerana,penulis menyasarkan golongan utama pembaca bukunya adalah rakyat AS sendiri yang sudah tentu mempunyai pengetahuan sejarah yang asas mengenai negara mereka (yang mereka pelajari di sekolah dan institusi pengajian tinggi). Oleh itu,kepada para pembaca yang bukan rakyat AS,adalah molek sekiranya kita mempunyai pengetahuan yang asas mengenai sejarah AS untuk lebih memahami apa yang cuba disampaikan oleh penulis.
Dari segi bahasa,bahasa yang digunakan adalah Bahasa Inggeris Tinggi yang menyaksikan susunan ayat oleh penulis yang agak mengelirukan sedikit pembacaan saya. Tambahan pula,pengetahuan bahasa Inggeris saya yang tidak begitu baik menambahkan kerumitan saya untuk memahami maklumat yang terkandung di dalamnya. Malah,laras-laras bahasa seperti laras politik dan laras undang-undang juga memberikan kesukaran terhadapa pemahaman saya kerana wujudnya beberapa perbendaharaan kata dan istilah yang memerlukan rujukan kamus untuk memahaminya. Buku ini juga ditulis dengan format penulisan ilmiah yang mantap,umpama penulisan sebuah tesis! Namun,saya kurang bersetuju dengan format yang sedemikian rupa digunakan kerana ia mungkin akan menyukarkan para pembaca membacanya terutamanya pembaca yang bersifat layman atau tidak mempunyai pengalaman membaca buku yang cirinya terlalu ilmiah.
Ada beberapa fakta yang amat menarik dan tidak pernah saya ketahui sebelum ini terkandung di dalam buku ini. Namun,ada juga beberapa perkara yang saya tidak bersetuju. Sebagai contoh,penulis menyatakan bahawa 'Deklarasi Kemerdekaan Amerika Syarikat' merupakan dokumen perjanjian yang pertama di dunia menjaga keadilan sesama manusia. Sedangkan,'Piagam Madinah' merupakan dokumen perjanjian yang pertama sebenarnya dalam menjaga hubungan antara manusia,terutamanya antara orang Islam dan orang bukan Islam.
Namun demikian,saya tetap mengesyorkan buku ini dibaca kepada mereka yang ingin mengetahui sejarah AS secara umumnya.

This book which been written by William J. Bennett is volume one from three volumes in total. For the first volume,it covers topics such as the discovery of American continent,War of Independence,Civil War and early World War I in 1914.
This book is actually better to be read by Americans. This is because the main target of this book is for US citizens as a whole. For international readers,it is better for us to have at least a basic knowledge of United States (US) history to understand the book better. The author used general/overview perspective to present his knowledge of US history to his readers. This book is not an 'ultimate' book on US history. It is not thoroughly written with neat details.
However,this book is suitable for readers who wished to know the history of US in abbreviated form. Or,as a starting point to better understand the unique and distinctive history of the 'New World'.

[Justin Reeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the great tragedies in American society today is the educational system in which millions of students from across the nation are bombarded with constant reminders of our faults. American patriotism is quickly falling out of favor for historical revisionists who seem determined to inform the public about the true nature of events and the true character of previously revered individuals. Along with a revisionist perspective, many textbooks contain errouneous facts and neglect important aspects in the American story. These textbooks also tend to be very dull; turning off students interests, leading to less knowledge and understanding of the nation in general.
In the current educational climate comes, “America: The Last Best Hope (Volume 1: From the Age of Discovery to the World at War),” by William J. Bennett. The first volume starts at the discovery of the nation by Europeans and goes to the eve of the First World War. The former secretary of education tells the american story from a different perspective; one in which hope is the central theme. This perspective looks at the national narrative through the lens of providing an inspiration of our past actions as a nation. This doesn’t mean the problems and despicable behavior of our past are swept under the rug. In fact, the opposite is true. The story is told in which all the characters are examined from a holistic point of view; warts and all. Bennett attempts to explain why the american story is unprecedented in the history of the world; how this “great experiment” with liberty and democracy became the example of a republican form of government for the rest of the world.
Hope is one of the six main reasons Bennett gives for writing the history. The idea of hope is one of the most powerful forces in the world. Unfortunately, hope can be extinguished with healthy doses of pessimism and cynicism. The resulting mixture creates a toxic climate for patriotic minded americans who wish to celebrate the benefits of living in a democratic society. These are the people for whom Bennett wrote this history; to reinvigorate an almost mythic conception about the greatness of the United States of America. As Bennett states, “an abiding sense of American greatness...has long characterized many of our leaders and tens of millions of the rest of us as well,” (xiii).
A related idea is the next reason for the existence of this history: so citizens can enjoy and take pride in their nation’s story. The American story is a remarkable one; filled with intriguing characters and captivating narratives, all united under the common theme of liberty. However, the seemingly exceptional story is expressed in such a dull, unsatisfying and pessimistic manner, most students become bored and quickly lose interest. All histories should inspire and elicit wonder and curiosity from their readers. Bennett’s ultimate goal is to inspire, inform, entertain, educate. In essence, his objective is to “tell the whole American story,” (xiv).
The third reason is a reminder to himself, as well as to other citizens, to give thanks for those who came before and “made it possible to lead free and happy lives,” (xiv). An important element in any historical examination is to recognize where one currently is, in relation to where they’ve been. In the American example, without the founding fathers, no Constitution or Bill of Rights would have been established which governs the nation. The procedures and mechanisms they created exist, in some form or another, to this very day. Bennett also recognizes the faults and poor decisions which have been made along the way, so as not to create a blind nationalistic sentiment amongst readers (xiv).
The next reason is the basic motive for the creation of histories to begin with: to tell the truth and “put forward a reasoned, balanced presentation of the American story,” (xv). Most revisionists fail here as they tend to expose only the serious problems with the creation of the American story, most notably being the existence and continuation of slavery until the passage of the thirteenth amendment. One can become extremely discouraged by such accounts, which could result in a pessimistic view. One can’t stress how important such endeavors are in society today as much of the overall knowledge comes from popular culture, which generally shows a distorted picture for a myriad of reasons.
The fifth reason is what separates Bennett’s volumes, fundamentally, from the majority of historical renderings: to boost a renewed patriotism. The word patriotism to some scholars denotes a fanatical devotion to one’s country. However, patriotism can be beneficial if it is an educated, or informed, patriotism. Such a patriotism is the one encouraged by Bennett (xv-xvi). The idea itself came from Ronald Reagan; who, interestingly enough, appointed Bennett as secretary of state from 1985-1988.
The final reason is to “kindle romance, to encourage Americans to fall in love with this country,” with “eyes wide open,” (xvii). Bennett is acknowledging the criticisms revisionists tend to make; the “obstacles, setbacks, stupidities, and atrocities” which lie right next to our accomplishments (xviii). In spite of these failings, Bennett sees an extraordinary story in which “dreams actually do come true” (xviii). The American dream, a romanticism embedded deeply within the national character, separates the American story from the rest of the world. The most dangerous force to a controlling government is hope, fed by a strong desire for liberty because such a fanaticism leads to the most unpredictable society to mankind. In America, as in no other place before, a republican form of government, led by the people, became a reality. This is the last best hope.
So does Bennett accomplish his main goals for writing such a history? In a word, yes. Throughout the narrative he constantly reminds the reader of the accomplishments of the most important figures in American history. Hope is the driving force behind the entire narrative and influences the perspective. Starting from Columbus to Washington to Jefferson to Jackson to Lincoln to Roosevelt; each character is given space in which to examine their influence to the nation.
Much has been written about Columbus’s exploits in the New World and Bennett shifts from discussing Columbus’s treatment of the Hispaniola natives to his overall impact in the battle for worldwide imperial supremacy. In fact, Bennett disputes the notion of Columbus bringing slaves to the New World by referencing the “pervasive” use of slavery by world powers all over the world. He also disputes the supposed role Columbus had in bringing over diseases such as smallpox and measles by underscoring the fact of little to no understanding of germ theory, especially amongst the native peoples of the New World (9). This is an example of the method Bennett employs in his narrative.
The challenge to composing an effective historical overview in an entertaining manner, is to decide which topics to specifically focus on more than others. One of Bennett’s specified goals in deciding to write an american history overview was to entertain as well as to inform. The strategy has its benefits as well as its drawbacks in this particular instance. The benefit is a highly readable, quick flowing narrative. One feels as if a year or two flies by with each passing paragraph.
The drawback to the strategy is some topics were detailed extensively, while others were only covered while passing by. An example would be during the section, “Reflection and Choice: Framing the Constitution (1783-1789),” the Articles of Confederation were only mentioned periodically and not given the treatment to reflect its influence on the Constitution. One can understand why he wouldn’t spend much time on a failed pre-cursor to the Constitution, but just a small overview would have benefitted by helping the reader understand the philosophical basis for the Constitution, as well as see the pattern of the creation of the government.
Perhaps the most noticeable topic not treated is a discussion of the electoral college system the founders put in place to select the president. Bennett informs the reader of both the popular vote and the electoral votes as well. However, an explanation of the process of the electoral college or how a candidate could receive more popular votes than electoral votes is never disclosed. The most egregious error is not necessarily the neglect of an in-depth analysis of the electoral college. Such a treatment would take way too long and would make the narrative less entertaining. However, by not explaining how the electoral college process works fully, a more rounded understanding of a major component of the nation is neglected.
William Bennett’s writing style in the narrative is very engaging and wraps the reader into the time period and story of each topic. As mentioned previously, the narrative proceeds in a brisk manner, which is highly readable to people of all ages. Not each topic is discussed in great detail but the way in which Bennett frames the story leaves the reader with wonder and curiosity. Also, he constantly refers back to old wives tales, common perceptions and corrects the story to many common fallacies.
A sense of reverence is shown throughout the narrative. Even some of the more sorry characters, such as John C. Calhoun, are given the respect they deserve. Calhoun was one of the most influential leaders from the south. The advantage of time makes some aspects of history look unforgivable in relation to current society. However, positions such as the arguments for slavery and Calhoun’s dogged devotion to such a policy underscore the challenges abolitionists had to deal with. In a sense, knowing about the pervasive persistence from such leaders as Calhoun, makes Lincoln’s actions look better by comparison.
One of the reasons Bennett claims to have written his history volumes is to “encourage a new patriotism -- a new reflective, reasoned form of patriotism,” (xv). Bennett wants to express, through the narrative, what he conceives to be the most fundamental freedom to the American dream; in essence, what makes America the “last best hope.” These freedoms are the basis for the reverence towards such influential figures as Abraham Lincoln and his ability to maintain the Union during the most tumultuous time in American history. Also, one can be encouraged by looking how the nation itself overcame adverse situations. A renewed sense of pride and self-confidence begins to grow in such a narrative. The danger of such a feeling of self-confidence is it leading to hubris and a form of blind patriotism.
The hope featured throughout the narrative, along with pride in the story, which is reflected in giving thanks to those who came before, by telling the whole truth, which encourages and rekindles a new patriotism and a romance with the nation itself, all combine to create a fresh and unique narrative. This narrative can be classified as more of a historiography than an historical work of scholarship. As an overall history, the narrative works well as a general educational piece of work. Bennett’s work is based primarily on secondary materials; which refers to scholarly works not intimately involved with the events which they describe. As an inspirational piece of work, the volume accomplishes the goal.
Overall “America: The Last Best Hope (Volume 1: From the Age of Discovery to the World at War)” by William J. Bennett presents an American history textbook with a unique perspective. This perspective takes the American story as the ultimate signal of hope for a republican form of democracy. The successes are highlights yet, the warts are also put into context as well. Flowing from the overall themes of taking pride and giving thanks creates a narrative in which a new form of patriotism is encouraged while rekindling a romance. The narrative is engaging, highly readable for all ages and proceeds in a lively style. While Bennett does achieve his overarching theme of presenting the American story as one of hopeful American exceptionalism, some topics which could fill out the story for a richer understanding of the American experience are excluded, such as a detailed description of the electoral college process. The first volume is highly recommended for those whom have little to no knowledge of the incredible American story. More educated researchers may find the lacking details frustrating. The narrative decidedly serves as a counter-balance to the myriad of literature and scholarly work which frames the story in less flattering terms. For this reason, the first volume is almost assuredly needed in today’s climate.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author is an ideological conservative, but this is quite up front. Interestingly, in light of that acknowledgement, it is a surprisingly even-handed treatment. This is not to say it is impartial, it's just that for a history written by an ideologue, the propaganda is actually at a minimum.

It is not, however, the work of a historian, as a glimpse through the footnotes will make quite clear. But at the same time, as a history of the United States written by a public servant, it's well-conceived and well-written. Numerous popular legends and quotes are uncritically repeated here, but it is still part of the work's charm. I read it more as 'the story of America' rather than the 'history of America'. Since I've normally considered 'American history' a slight contradiction in terms, at least compared to my own area of the ancient world, I've not really read much since I was quite young. However, I did enjoy this book very much, and it has me re-interested in the subject and period.

I would be interested in reading a similar work by an author who served the country from the perspective of the Democratic party. Feel free to recommend to me any title you might be aware of.

[Keith Craig · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a pleasant surprise. I was expecting a jingoistic book by Dr. Bennett. What a got was a brush stroke of U.S. history with only a few comments on modern politics. I did think the remarks about modern politics were unnecessary in a history book. The reason I only gave three stars is that I have done a lot of reading about history and knew most of the things talked about in this book.

I would reccomend this for someone that does not have a lot of historical reading under their belt. That way when you read more in-depth book you will have a good overview of the events before and after the time period you are reading about.

[Christopher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lively, readable, and evenhanded general history of the US from Columbus to WWI.

There are lots of "pop-histories" by current/former TV personalities that vary wildly in tone and competence. Fox News has largely cornered the "history" side with Bill O'Reilly's ubiquitous "Killing" series being one of the lesser lights while Brian Kilmeade's books fare better. The liberal arts majors of MSNBC/CNN tend to focus more on more pop-social science in a "here's everything wrong about America and my way to fix it" manner (See Maddow, Hayes, et al).

So it was something of a surprise that Former Secretary of Education (and talk show host and Fox contributor) Bill Bennet's 2004 "America: The Last Best Hope" proved such a readable, well written and useful survey of United States history that is devoid of political posturing or propagandistic rhetoric.

In the intro, Bennett says he wanted to write a history that showed America "warts and all" as a counter to the "only warts" approach of some more ideological writers. Does that mean Bennett isn't ideological? Hardly. He says he wanted to write a generally favorable history of the United States and he does that. He says he wanted to shine a little more light on the Founders in particular. He is also upfront that this is because he thinks the history of the US *is* generally favorable. It's both a forthright, somewhat humble, and kind of endearing, approach.

Bennett's non-ideological approach is refreshing in that, with the exception of Buchanan, every president is portrayed in a generally favorable light (other than Buchanan, Jackson comes the closest to a negative review). While some might quibble that this is too warm by half, Bennett writes that while we often elect fools, we don't elect tyrants. In that context, even the Millard Filmores of the world deserve a pat on the pack or two.

What follows is a survey that hits all the "high points" of American history that most history-minded readers will be familiar with. Because it covers such a long span, we don't get a deep-dive into issues or personalities, but Bennett does an outstanding job of injecting just enough life into everything Burr's treason trial to Jackson's ascent to the Gilded Age that the casual reader comes away with a greater understanding/familiarity while the more knowledgeable reader doesn't feel cheated.

Bennett more than adequately covers America's most prominent "warts" (slavery, Indian removal, etc), but to be clear, this isn't a "stunning reassessment" of America. This is a generally positive history of the US because the history of the US *is* generally positive. And most such "stunning reassessments" are just marketing ploys anyway.

All told, this is an excellent general history that serves as a welcome corrective to the "only warts" American historical approach.

[John Boyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been wanting to read Bennett for a long time now and I am so glad I finally got around to do it! Bennett's seminal work on American History should be read by every history student in America. He equally balances the survey nature of the book to still providing a depth that helps the reader truly understand the context behind all of the events covered in the book. He isn't afraid to point out the sins of the past while at the same time helping us understand the culture in which the people who made those decision were living in at the time. Something that is lacking more and more in history books today. I've already started the second volume and looking forward to it immensely. Read this book for yourself to give you a better understanding of American history and be sure to have your high school student read it!

[Joel Everett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I "read" this as an audio book. A good overall balanced, and even keeled - political wise, overview of the American History up to the start of the 20th Century; currently on the second volume to this.

[Cami Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely nationalistic and emphasizes American Exceptionalism. But Bennett shares in a conversational tone the major highlights of American history—from its “discovery” to the dawn of World War I. There are some interesting facts and anecdotes to keep the reader’s interest piqued.

[Camille · Rating 5 out of 5]

It did an awesome job of being unbiased and wasn't extremely boring

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read for my daughter's required summer reading as preparation for 8th grade history. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This book turns history into an absorbing story and was an excellent introduction to American history and should provide enough context and interest to make the overlay of her actual studies much more enjoyable. For me, it was a lovely refresher than held my interest as well as any thriller. Had I read this in my middle school years, I feel I would have gotten much more out of my classes as it brings more relevance to bare names, dates, and military maneuvers. I am looking forward to reading the rest of Bennett's books.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

A history lesson encapsulating the birth of our nation through the time just before WWI. This is a volume that is easy to read, and a MUST read for any history buff.

[Miss Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A satisfying read, and yes - this is my idea of what an American history book ought be.
Not that "bottoms-up" stuff.

[Jennifer]

So, I have just read the introduction and I am already inspired. I wonder if part of the attraction is that I have an active duty spouse? I wonder how that colors my perspective? Well, it is very good so far. I liek to think that I will keep you posted, but I probably wont.

[Kenzi Kraync · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its amazing!!!
I'm reading it for U.S. History.

[Steven Richards · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite history books (Vol. 1 & 2) to date. I love how Dr. Bennett introduces historical figures early in the narrative, before they are typically well known by history.

[Camilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally. FINALLY. This is the kind of American history book that I've been looking for my entire life. All the best stories of heroism and bravery that we're meant to dismiss as adults or scoff at are told in chronological succession starting with the revolutionary conflict that founded this nation. It's not that the author only focused on the best aspects of America's 300-year history. It's that he doesn't apologize for the best aspects of America. He doesn't gloss over the ugly bits, but he does take the trouble to celebrate the accomplishments, victories, and positive changes that occurred in our shared past. I loved every second of my time in this book and I know I'll be rereading this in the future.

The author doesn't dismiss the problems in this country's past: racism, anti-Semitism, gender inequality, and the treatment of the natives by Columbus and his contemporaries are all discussed openly and without deceit. But America is more than her worst parts, and this book encompasses the ugly and shows the other side of the coin: those heroes like Frederick Douglass and Jane Addams and the incomparable Abraham Lincoln fought to bring about equality. I loved reading about Christopher Columbus in the unapologetic way that he deserves. He was a bold and daring explorer who set about doing what no one had done before and discovering areas of land that the European world knew nothing of. His interactions with the natives there were set in the context of historical precedent, meaning that the injustices and indignities and brutalities suffered by the natives were not understandable or acceptable, but that they were in keeping with all so-called conquerors of the age. Columbus isn't nearly the villain that modern-day schoolchildren are taught he is; in fact, I would go so far as to say that we should learn more about what he did and didn't do so this country can go back to celebrating the accomplishments that led to us enjoying this beloved country. The treatment of the Native Americans throughout American history was also discussed in a clear-cut manner with an attempt at showcasing the most well-known battles and skirmishes. At times, the brutality and violence of the American armies and homesteaders was breathtaking--at other times the Native Americans demonstrated their own significant brutality. I particularly appreciated Bennett helping to explain that often the brutality of the moment was encouraged because the perpetrators were thinking of past wrongs and acting in a retaliatory or avenging manner. The misunderstandings and repeated wrongs led to generations of suffering and death on both sides of the conflict and we can still see the repercussions of those actions reflected in today's America.

Overall, this book is a must-read to all who want to know the good and the bad of this country and to understand some of the major events and players that shaped this nation. I cannot wait for the second installment!

[Chad Manske · Rating 4 out of 5]

William J. Bennett’s “America: The Last Best Hope, Volume 1: From the Age of Discovery to a World at War” is more than a history lesson—it is a stirring reminder of why the American story continues to inspire generations across the globe. With a gifted storyteller’s touch, Bennett takes readers on a sweeping journey from the daring explorers who set sail across uncharted seas to the battles and debates that shaped the foundations of the United States. His goal is not merely to recount events, but to remind us that freedom, democracy, and self-government came at extraordinary cost and through extraordinary perseverance. What sets this book apart is Bennett’s ability to marry fact with purpose. History here is never dry; rather, it is vivid, alive, and deeply human. Figures such as Columbus, Jefferson, Washington, and Lincoln are presented not as unreachable icons, but as men driven by conviction and vision, yet still fallible and complex. At every turn, Bennett emphasizes the choices that defined history—the moments when courage triumphed over fear, when unity overcame division, when hope pushed back the darkness of despair. Educationally, this volume offers a panoramic view of America’s emergence on the world stage, enabling readers to connect the dots between the Age of Discovery, the birth of the Republic, and the nation’s eventual role in global struggles for freedom. It succeeds especially well in helping readers, young and old alike, see history not as remote but as relevant to challenges today. Most importantly, Bennett writes with a voice of hope and conviction. He frames America not as a perfect nation, but as a resilient one—capable of renewal through faith in its founding ideals. In an era when cynicism can cloud our view of the past, this book stands as a reminder that the American experiment, for all its trials, carries within it the promise of liberty for future generations. Inspiring, educational, and ultimately uplifting, “The Last Best Hope, Volume 1” is a powerful invitation to believe once more in the story of America and the enduring strength of its ideals.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fairly well-crafted recounting of the history of America. Bennett does a good job of balancing the wonderful positives and the unfortunate negatives of our past. I enjoyed rereading the familiar stories and reading some for the first time. It is pretty superficial, but that is to be expected, given his aim of writing an accessible, relatively short history. I don't know about the print edition, but the Kindle edition was marred by the use of far too many italicized words. In too many places, words that didn't seem to need emphasis were italicized. It was most distracting. ;-)

[Zinger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall this was a good High School level history book. It is very simple on many events in history, which one has to in a general history book. Lacking is the economic events that helped shape the events. The author sounded like a neo-con, which was very refreshing from often reading history books from progressive or socialist interpretations of history. But being libertarian minded, the authors views were much too statist for me and gave too much praise to Hamilton, Lincoln, Wilson... centralized banking...

Not a bad history book and I have started volume 2.

[David Schlack · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 - I have just received a Bachelor’s degree in American History. Every American should read America, The Last Best Hope by William Bennett. It’s good to read about the struggles and fragility of the early United States. The rattlesnake under the table of America which was slavery. “All men are created equal ... “ except negroes. The United States is a great country full of freedoms but full of contradictions as well. We have a rich history and it refreshing to be reminded. READ ON.

[Jason · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent overview of American History. A little slow in spots and if you are a history buff then not much will be new to you, but I was surprised a few times at the detail he got into with certain events. Especially when he had so much to cover. I don't believe anything was left out or missed in the tome. There is a second volume as well that gets us into modern history. Really well-done overview of American history right up into WWI.

[Michelle Fournier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating and very readable American history. Read with my 10th graders for American History-we did not quite read all of it, but read from just after the American Revolution through to the very end at the cusp of WWI. I highly recommend this for high school history and will be using it with future students. This was excellent read alongside William Churchill's Great Democracies and Arguing about Slavery.

[Paul Peterson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very fast-paced ride through American history from birth to WWI. Love the history from a guy whose politics I agree with! Bennett is brilliant but the reader must stay on their toes to keep up with him through some of his obscure references. One historical figure I hadn't heard of before is Jane Addams, who I will read up on as she has drawn my interest.

[Rebecca The Files of Mrs. E, · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a history fan, I loved this book! The scope and breadth is impressive and yet Bennett still doesn't lose sight of the individuals that make our history. I loved reading the history of our country from the first people here and explorers up until just before World War I, especially with Bennett's beautiful prose.

[Mark Mears · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Bennett’s book is an enjoyable history of our nation. It is not incredibly detailed, more vignettes of Mr. Bennett’s favorite moments...but I’ll take that!

The author does not gloss over the negative occurrences, but he does focus on the positive, which is one of the reasons I enjoyed the book so much. Americans have much of which to be proud.

[Joe O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding; first volume of American history, from it's discovery up to the start of the first World War; in brief chapters the story of the USA is covered in easy to understand bits, with events and personalities both explored expertly

[Raj Agrawal · Rating 4 out of 5]

A apologetic approach in many instances, but fills in the gaps that more critical accounts take. I gained a lot of context that I didn’t have before.