Papers In Illinois History And Transactions

Papers in Illinois History and Transactions

A History of Chicago, Volume II

The first major history of Chicago ever written, A History of Chicago covers the city’s great history over two centuries, from 1673 to 1893. Originally conceived as a centennial history of Chicago, the project became, under the guidance of renowned historian Bessie Louise Pierce, a definitive, three-volume set describing the city’s growth—from its humble frontier beginnings to the horrors of the Great Fire, the construction of some of the world’s first skyscrapers, and the opulence of the 1893 World’s Fair. Pierce and her assistants spent over forty years transforming historical records into an inspiring human story of growth and survival. Rich with anecdotal evidence and interviews with the men and women who made Chicago great, all three volumes will now be available for the first time in years. A History of Chicago will be essential reading for anyone who wants to know this great city and its place in America. “With this rescue of its history from the bright, impressionable newspapermen and from the subscription-volumes, Chicago builds another impressive memorial to its coming of age, the closing of its first ‘century of progress.’”—E. D. Branch, New York Times (1937)

Lincoln and His World

Based on deep consultation of seldom-examined primary sources, this third volume in Richard Lawrence Miller's massive Lincoln biography follows Lincoln's long effort to win a seat in Congress, his activity there, and his return to Illinois--chastened by his Washington experience. Topics include: Lincoln's anti-slavery efforts in Congress; the popularity of his stance against the Mexican War (which, contrary to common belief, didn't significantly harm his political reputation); his support of Zachary Taylor's presidential campaign and his subsequent efforts to win a patronage job from the Taylor White House; his political activities after returning to Illinois; and his generally happy home life with Mary and his sons. Throughout the work, a new portrait emerges of Lincoln as a canny politician, making his own luck by striking swiftly and strongly when opportunities arose.