The Magazine Of American History With Notes And Queries Volume 4

The Magazine of American History With Notes and Queries; Volume 4

Report on "The Star-Spangled Banner", "Hail Columbia", "America", "Yankee Doodle"

A report by the Chief of the Music Division of the Library of Congress on the history and evolution of several of the United State's most evocative and patriotic songs --: "The Star-Spangled Banner," "Hail Columbia," "America," and "Yankee Doodle," with fascinating details on each of these works, and examination of many false popular legends about the various songs.

John Banister of Newport

Merchant John Banister (1707-1767) of Newport, Rhode Island, wore many hats: exporter, importer, wholesaler, retailer, money-lender, extender of credit and insurer, owner and outfitter of sailing vessels, and ship builder for the slave trade. His recently discovered accounting records reveal his role in transforming colonial trade in mid-18th century America. He combined business acumen and a strong work ethic with knowledge of the law and new technologies. Through his maritime activities and real estate development, he was a rain-maker for artisans, workers and producers, contributing to income opportunities for businesswomen, freemen and slaves. Drawing on Banister's meticulous daybooks, ledgers, letters and receipts, the author analyzes his contribution to the economic history of colonial America, highlighting the complexity of the commerce of the era.