Joseph J. Ellis Books

Joseph J. Ellis is Ford Foundation Professor of History at Mount Holyoke. Ellis, a specialist in American history, is the author of several award-winning books, including American Sphinx, a study of Thomas Jefferson, and The Passionate Sage, a study of John Adams. 

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1
 Books: Founding Brothers by Joseph J. Ellis

Founding Brothers

Joseph J. Ellis
The Revolutionary Generation
4.6 (232 ratings)
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What's Founding Brothers about?

Founding Brothers (2002) complicates and enriches our understanding of the American revolution. The men who founded America lived and worked in uncertain times. The future was far from certain, and even the truths they held to be self-evident often led to strikingly different conclusions. But they clung to one another – as friends, as rivals, and even as enemies. Together, they formed a fraternity of remarkable minds that could collectively solve the problems each of them on their own could not.

Who should read Founding Brothers?

  • History buffs
  • Americanophiles 
  • Anyone who loves stories

2
 Books: His Excellency by Joseph J. Ellis

His Excellency

Joseph J. Ellis

What's His Excellency about?

His Excellency by Joseph J. Ellis is a compelling biography that delves into the life of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Ellis offers a fresh perspective on Washington's leadership, character, and legacy, painting a vivid portrait of this influential figure in American history.

Who should read His Excellency?

  • Readers interested in a comprehensive and engaging biography of George Washington
  • History enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of America's founding era
  • Individuals who appreciate well-researched and thought-provoking accounts of influential figures

3
 Books: American Sphinx by Joseph J. Ellis

American Sphinx

Joseph J. Ellis

What's American Sphinx about?

American Sphinx by Joseph J. Ellis delves into the complex and enigmatic personality of Thomas Jefferson. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, the book uncovers the contradictions and complexities of the third President of the United States, painting a multidimensional portrait of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping American history.

Who should read American Sphinx?

  • History enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of Thomas Jefferson
  • Readers interested in the complexities of American politics and leadership
  • Those who enjoy biographies that offer a nuanced and thought-provoking portrayal of historical figures

4
 Books: American Creation by Joseph J. Ellis

American Creation

Joseph J. Ellis

What's American Creation about?

American Creation by Joseph J. Ellis delves into the early years of the United States, exploring the founding fathers' vision for the nation and the challenges they faced in shaping its identity. From the Revolutionary War to the drafting of the Constitution, this book offers a thought-provoking analysis of the pivotal moments that defined America's inception.

Who should read American Creation?

  • History enthusiasts who want to learn about the founding of the United States
  • Readers interested in the political and intellectual debates that shaped the nation
  • Individuals who enjoy exploring the complexities and contradictions of American history

5
 Books: Revolutionary Summer by Joseph J. Ellis

Revolutionary Summer

Joseph J. Ellis

What's Revolutionary Summer about?

Revolutionary Summer by Joseph J. Ellis delves into the pivotal summer of 1776, a time when the American colonies declared independence from Britain. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Ellis explores the political and military events that shaped the birth of a new nation. This book offers a fresh perspective on the American Revolution and its key players, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts.

Who should read Revolutionary Summer?

  • History enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of the American Revolutionary War
  • Readers interested in the dynamics and complexities of the founding fathers and their leadership
  • Individuals who enjoy accessible and engaging non-fiction narratives