What Hath God Wrought summary

Exploring the Early 19th Century America

In What Hath God Wrought by Daniel Walker Howe, we are taken on a journey through the early 19th century America, a time of great change and transformation. The book begins with the election of James Monroe in 1816, a period marked by the end of the War of 1812 and the beginning of the 'Era of Good Feelings'. Howe delves into the political, social, and economic landscape of the time, exploring the impact of the market revolution, religious revivalism, and westward expansion.

Howe emphasizes the significance of the market revolution, a period of rapid economic growth and industrialization. He discusses the emergence of a market economy, the growth of cities, and the rise of a new middle class. Simultaneously, he highlights the social and cultural changes brought about by this revolution, including the rise of individualism and the changing roles of women.

Technological Advancements and Their Impact

One of the key themes in What Hath God Wrought is the impact of technological advancements on American society. Howe discusses the development of the telegraph and its role in transforming communication and the spread of information. He also explores the expansion of transportation networks, such as canals and railroads, and their influence on the movement of people and goods.

These technological advancements, according to Howe, played a crucial role in the expansion of the United States. They facilitated westward migration, encouraged economic growth, and contributed to the sense of national unity. However, they also brought about significant social and cultural changes, including the spread of mass media and the rise of a national popular culture.

Political Developments and the Issue of Slavery

Turning to the political landscape, What Hath God Wrought examines the dominance of the Democratic-Republican Party and the presidency of Andrew Jackson. Howe provides a detailed analysis of Jackson's presidency, focusing on his policies, his approach to governance, and his impact on American politics. He also discusses the emergence of the Whig Party as a response to Jacksonian democracy.

Another critical aspect of the political narrative is the issue of slavery. Howe explores the growing sectional tensions over the expansion of slavery into the western territories. He highlights the Missouri Compromise, the Nullification Crisis, and the growing abolitionist movement, all of which set the stage for the Civil War. Howe argues that these tensions were deeply rooted in the economic, social, and cultural transformations of the time.

Religious Revivalism and Social Reforms

In addition to politics and technology, What Hath God Wrought also delves into the religious and social aspects of early 19th century America. Howe discusses the Second Great Awakening, a period of religious revivalism that swept across the nation. He explores the impact of this religious fervor on various social and cultural movements, including temperance, women's rights, and abolitionism.

Howe argues that the Second Great Awakening played a significant role in shaping American society, fostering a sense of moral reform and social activism. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of religious and social movements, highlighting how they both reflected and influenced the broader transformations taking place in the United States.

Conclusion: A Period of Profound Change

In conclusion, What Hath God Wrought presents a comprehensive and insightful exploration of early 19th century America. Howe paints a vivid picture of a nation undergoing profound changes, driven by technological advancements, economic growth, political developments, and social and religious movements. He argues that this period laid the foundation for the modern United States, shaping its economy, society, and politics in fundamental ways.

Overall, What Hath God Wrought is a rich and detailed account of a pivotal era in American history. It offers valuable insights into the forces that shaped the nation during this transformative period and provides a deeper understanding of the roots of many of the issues that continue to influence American society today.