To me, it is Democracy in America, by Tocqueville.
2007-06-20 05:24:55 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas'
Hunter Thompson
2007-06-20 05:42:21 · answer #1 · answered by Incognito 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Interesting, I think that some of the best books describing America are actually fiction. To really see the American Character read: Grapes of Wraith and To Kill a Mockingbird, or Inherit the Wind and the Crucible.
For Non-Fiction: I agree the Federalist Papers say it best, but also look at Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose
2007-06-20 12:31:25 · answer #2 · answered by Thomas G 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
In the collected works of Paine, I read a few essays by "Common Sense". They were delightful, instructive and really "out-there". "The Rights of Man" is probably on its own the most outstanding contribution of America to world culture.
2007-06-20 12:56:58 · answer #3 · answered by Catch 22 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I recommend anything from Thomas Paine.
The Life and Major Writings of Thomas Paine is a good place to start.
2007-06-20 12:57:22 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
An excellent book.
Another, of course, is The Federalist Papers.
2007-06-20 12:28:31 · answer #5 · answered by ? 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your choice is a good one. You might also consider the Federalist Papers or any of the tomes written by Thomas Jefferson.
2007-06-20 12:30:01 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
The Articles of Confederation
This is basically the framework and first draft of the Constitution and it gives great insight to what our founders were truly intending when people try to "interpret" the Constitution.
2007-06-20 12:33:42 · answer #7 · answered by sprcpt 6 · 0⤊ 3⤋
bright lights, big city...
2007-06-20 12:31:09 · answer #8 · answered by nostradamus02012 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋