Thirty Years' View (Vol. 2 of 2) or, A History of the Working of the American Government for Thirty Years, from 1820 to 1850

** "Thirty Years' View (Vol. 2 of 2)" by Thomas Hart Benton is a historical exploration into a transformative period in American governance. Using congressional records, personal documents from influential people like General Jackson, and his own public addresses, Benton investigates the period from 1820 to 1850; he critically analyzes significant political issues like economic downturns, the divisive role of slavery in government, and the complexities of crafting national laws. The book begins with President Martin Van Buren's inauguration, highlighting his early policies, particularly his focus on peaceful international relations and his approach to the growing tensions surrounding slavery, while also shedding light on the initial economic challenges under Van Buren's presidency, detailing the financial difficulties and questionable banking practices that ultimately fueled a national crisis and reshaped the political landscape. **