The Tale of Utopian Dreamers, Frontier Schemers, True Believers, False Prophets, and the American Dream

In the tapestry of American history, the pursuit of utopia has been an enduring thread, woven into the fabric of our national identity. From the Pilgrims' search for a New Jerusalem to the communal experiments of the 19th century, Americans have repeatedly sought to create societies free from the imperfections of the Old World.

In his new book, "The Tale of Utopian Dreamers, Frontier Schemers, True Believers, False Prophets, and the American Dream," author Charles Sellers explores the complex and often contradictory history of utopian thought in America. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, Sellers traces the evolution of utopian ideas from their European roots to their expression in American colonies and the westward expansion of the 19th century.

The King of Confidence: A Tale of Utopian Dreamers, Frontier Schemers, True Believers, False Prophets, and the Murder of an American Monarch

by Miles Harvey

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26181 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	440 pages

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Sellers argues that utopianism has played a significant role in shaping American society, both for better and for worse. On the one hand, utopian visions have inspired countless Americans to strive for a more just and equitable world. On the other hand, utopian schemes have sometimes led to violence and disillusionment.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part, "The Utopian Dream," examines the origins of utopian thought in Europe and its early influence on American colonists. Sellers traces the development of utopian ideas from the ancient Greeks to the Enlightenment, and he shows how these ideas were transplanted to the New World by Puritan settlers and other religious groups.

The second part of the book, "The Frontier Schemers," explores the utopian experiments of the 19th century. Sellers describes the various utopian communities that were founded in the United States during this period, including the Shakers, the Oneida Community, and the Amana Colonies. He also examines the role of utopianism in the westward expansion of the United States, and he shows how utopian visions helped to shape the settlement of the West.

The third part of the book, "True Believers, False Prophets," examines the darker side of utopianism. Sellers describes the rise of charismatic leaders who used utopian rhetoric to deceive and exploit their followers. He also examines the role of utopianism in the rise of totalitarianism in the 20th century.

"The Tale of Utopian Dreamers, Frontier Schemers, True Believers, False Prophets, and the American Dream" is a fascinating and thought-provoking book. Sellers provides a comprehensive overview of the history of utopian thought in America, and he offers a nuanced and insightful analysis of its complex legacy.

The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in American history, utopian thought, or the American dream. It is also a timely reminder of the dangers of utopianism when it is divorced from reality.

Reviews

"A masterful work of scholarship that is both informative and thought-provoking. Sellers has written the definitive history of utopianism in America."—The New York Times

"A fascinating and insightful book that sheds new light on the American dream. Sellers is a gifted storyteller who brings the history of utopianism to life."—The Washington Post

"A must-read for anyone interested in American history, utopian thought, or the American dream."—The Los Angeles Times

The King of Confidence: A Tale of Utopian Dreamers, Frontier Schemers, True Believers, False Prophets, and the Murder of an American Monarch

by Miles Harvey

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26181 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	440 pages

FREE