The Communistic Societies of the United States From Personal Visit and Observation

"The Communistic Societies of the United States" by Charles Nordhoff, is a 19th-century exploration of communistic communities within America. The book documents their beginnings, operating methods, and social groups. Nordhoff's research comes from seeing these communities in person, with the goal of understanding their methods and their impact on solving labor issues. The book begins by introducing the idea of communism in America, explaining its rise as a result of labor problems. Nordhoff explains why he is studying these communistic groups, noting their ability to show different ways for the working class to become independent. He also criticizes trades unions, claiming they make workers more dependent instead of giving them power. He prepares the reader to learn about distinct communities, beginning with the Amana Community, to deeply examine their social traditions, financial systems, and religious ideas.