American Political Ideas Viewed from the Standpoint of Universal History

'American Political Ideas Viewed from the Standpoint of Universal History' is a fascinating analysis of the evolution of American politics in relation to the wider context of political history. In three lectures delivered at the Royal Institution of Great Britain in May 1880, John Fiske explores the development of American government, tracing its lineage from the town-meetings of New England to the leagues of Greek cities and Swiss cantons. Fiske argues that the success of American politics can be measured by its ability to balance local and individual freedom with peaceful concerted action, a problem that has faced civilization since its inception.