ABSTRACT
American exceptionalism � the idea that America is fundamentally distinct from other nations � is a philosophy that has dominated economics, politics, religion and culture for two centuries. This collection of primary source material seeks to understand how this belief began, how it developed and why it remains popular.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
chapter |12 pages
Thomas Barnard, Thanksgiving Sermon, February 19, 1795 (Salem, MA: Printed by Thomas C. Cushing, 1795).
To The North Congregation in Salem, Whom I Have The Honour and Happiness to Serve, as Their Minister; and The Members of Other Religious Societies, Who Have Promoted This Publication, and Whose Attentions Add Much to My Enjoyment; This Sermon is Respectcully Dedicated by The Author. / Isaiah V. 3–7.
chapter |16 pages
Abiel Holmes, Two Discourses, on the Completion of the Second Century from the Landing of the Forefathers of New England at Plymouth, 22 Dec. 1620, Delivered at Cambrdge 24Dec. 1820 (Cambridge, MA: Printed by Hilliard and Metcalf, 1821).
To the People of My Pastoral Charge These Discourses, Published at their Request, are Inscribed by their Affectionate Pastor./