A History of the United States: Volume IV: Federalists and Republicans, 1789-1815. Illustrated

Volume IV of Edward Channing’s A History of the United States covers the formative years of the American republic—from the ratification of the Constitution in 1789 to the end of the War of 1812. Titled Federalists and Republicans, this volume explores the early challenges of governance, the rise of political parties, and the efforts to define the young nation's identity at home and abroad. Channing offers a detailed account of the Federalist administrations of George Washington and John Adams, highlighting their efforts to establish strong national institutions, manage foreign relations, and navigate internal dissent. The narrative then turns to the Jeffersonian Republicans, focusing on Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, the Louisiana Purchase, and the growing conflict with Britain. The volume culminates with the War of 1812, portraying it as a test of American resilience and sovereignty. Through careful scholarship and engaging prose, Channing captures a critical era in which the ideals of the Revolution were tested in practice and American democracy began to take shape.