New York

"New York" by James Fenimore Cooper is a mid-19th century historical exploration, charting New York City's transformation into a global commercial power after 1785. Cooper looks at the city's promising future and hurdles, discussing what was going on at the time involving business, society, and government. He says New York’s location and strong business made it successful, setting it apart from other American cities with its unique buildings and social scene. The book touches on political issues like slavery and state power, with Cooper worried about how divisions might harm the nation and its economy. In the end, he pictures New York as a major global city, on par with Europe's best, even with the problems of the day.