The Nation's Crucible: The Louisiana Purchase and the Creation of America

by Peter J. Kastor

In 1803 the United States purchased Louisiana from France. This seemingly simple acquisition brought with it an enormous new territory as well as the country's first large population of nonnaturalized Americans--Native Americans, African Americans, and Francophone residents. What would become of those people dominated national affairs in the years that followed. This book chronicles that contentious period from 1803 to 1821, years during which people proposed numerous visions of the future for Louisiana and the United States. The Louisiana Purchase proved to be the crucible of American nationhood, Peter Kastor argues. The incorporation of Louisiana was among the most important tasks for a generation of federal policymakers. It also transformed the way people defined what it meant to be an American.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

336 pages, Hardcover

First published March 11, 2004

Reviews

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very solid history and analysis of how Louisiana was incorporated into the Union. Also intriguingly pushes against the established manifest destiny paradigm.

[Kristin-Leigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book chronicles Lousiana's history from the territory's purchase during Jefferson's administration to its admission into the union in 1812. I really enjoyed the read, as the Louisiana Purchase is most often taught as a footnote in America's history, important only in that it expanded US borders--one doesn't reflect on the fact that there were people already living there when it was incorporated! It's interesting to read about the issues faced by these new citizens and their struggle towards statehood.

It's also well-written, as history books go, and I didn't find it overly dense or pedantic. A casual reader would enjoy this as much as a student.

[Morandia · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting book that provides much to think about. yes the lack of mention of the role of women was very noticeable