A short history of Pittsburgh : 1758-1908

"A Short History of Pittsburgh: 1758-1908" by Samuel Harden Church is a historical narrative that recounts Pittsburgh's transformation from its founding to becoming a major industrial center in America. The book links the city’s growth to important leaders, most significantly George Washington, who was central in determining its initial military value. The story begins by explaining Pittsburgh's strategic location, with a special emphasis on Washington's early encounters there when planning military actions against the French. The early parts of the book detail Washington’s insights and actions concerning building forts where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet, which laid the ground for the city's future importance. This segment of the narrative shows the city's beginnings, describing the early conflicts between European nations, American Indian people, and Washington's contributions to the city's founding and expansion.