This section introduces John Jacob Astor’s grand vision to establish a fur-trading post on the Pacific coast. Gathering merchants, sailors, hunters, and interpreters, he forms the...
The second part follows the sea and land expeditions as peril deepens. The ship Tonquin meets disaster in conflict with native tribes, while the overland party struggles with cold,...
Astoria is finally established, yet peace proves fleeting. War with Britain, scarcity of supplies, and inner discord threaten the enterprise. Traders face rivals like the Hudson’s...
The final part chronicles the fall of Astoria and the collapse of Astor’s enterprise. Yet his petition to Congress and later trade documents preserve the vision of expanding Ameri...
Washington was born into a respected family and displayed calmness and responsibility from an early age. Amid the turbulence of colonial life, he gained practical leadership throug...
Washington faced his first great test during the French and Indian War. Serving under General Braddock, he witnessed both perilous battles and devastating defeat. His composure ami...
After Braddock’s defeat, Washington reorganized colonial defenses and strengthened regional security. Managing both Indian raids and internal unrest, he matured as a military lead...
Oliver Goldsmith was born into a poor Irish family and endured a turbulent youth filled with uncertainty. Wandering across Europe, he drifted between medicine and writing, seeking ...
During this period, Goldsmith wrote his masterpieces such as The Vicar of Wakefield and The Deserted Village, earning widespread fame. Yet success brought financial struggles and s...
In his later years, Goldsmith’s health declined and debts haunted him, drawing him into solitude. He sought renewal through theater and poetry, yet society remained unkind. Despit...
This part presents Irving’s witty and reflective observations of European life. “Mountjoy” exposes the futility of ambition through a man obsessed with building castles, while ...
This section unfolds as a colorful blend of art, history, and legend. “American Researches in Italy” explores the heritage of Tasso and Dante, linking art to memory. “Ralph Ring...
This first part presents a humorous and nostalgic portrayal of early American life through the persona of Diedrich Knickerbocker. A Chronicle of Wolfert’s Roost captures rustic Ne...
The second part shifts toward satire and historical fantasy. In National Nomenclature and Desultory Thoughts on Criticism, Irving mocks cultural pretension and literary vanity. The...
