Union and Democracy

"Union and Democracy" by Author Allen Johnson is a historical narrative that examines the birth of the United States after the Revolutionary War, specifically from 1783 onward. It looks at how the country started experimenting with different ways of governing itself and how citizens began to have a voice in a democracy. The book talks about the problems the nation faced under the Articles of Confederation, a shaky first attempt at a government. It also follows the journey of creating the Constitution, a new set of rules that would try to fix those problems. Plus, it shows how the country changed as people began moving west, opening up new territories and possibilities. The beginning of the book paints a picture of Americans being excited about their newfound freedom, but then it throws in the harsh realities of economic struggles, like debt and unhappy people. The story suggests the failing Confederation led to calls for a more robust federal government, sparking discussions about how the nation should be run, what rights people should have, and how to build a shared identity, teasing the pivotal moments that would decide America’s destiny.