By Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine's Political Writings Volumes 1 and 2 are a comprehensive collection of his most influential works, reflecting his pivotal role in the American and French Revolutions. These volumes include seminal texts such as Common Sense, The Rights of Man, and The Age of Reason, among others.

Volume 1 primarily covers Paine's early writings, including his famous pamphlet Common Sense, which powerfully argued for American independence from Britain. This volume also includes his series of essays titled The American Crisis, written during the Revolutionary War to inspire the American troops.

Volume 2 continues with Paine's later works, focusing on his contributions to political philosophy and his advocacy for social reforms. This volume includes The Rights of Man, in which Paine defends the French Revolution and argues for natural rights and democratic government. It also features The Age of Reason, in which Paine critiques organized religion and promotes deism.

Together, these volumes offer a thorough insight into Paine's revolutionary ideas and his enduring impact on political thought.

Thomas Paine's writings are rich with several recurring themes that reflect his revolutionary spirit and commitment to social justice. Here are some of the main themes:

1. Liberty and Independence: Paine passionately advocated for the independence of the American colonies from British rule. In "Common Sense," he argued that it was both a natural right and a practical necessity for the colonies to break free from British tyranny.

2. Rights of Man: Paine believed in the inherent rights of individuals. In "The Rights of Man," he defended the French Revolution and argued that all men are born with natural rights that should be protected by governments.

3. Democracy and Republicanism: Paine was a strong proponent of democratic principles and republican forms of government. He believed that governments should be based on the consent of the governed and that hereditary monarchy was an unjust and outdated system.

4. Social Justice and Equality: Paine's writings often touched on issues of social justice and economic equality. He advocated for progressive taxation, social welfare programs, and the abolition of slavery.

5. Reason and Secularism: In "The Age of Reason," Paine critiqued organized religion and promoted deism, emphasizing the importance of reason and scientific inquiry over religious dogma.

6. Revolution and Change: Paine saw revolution as a necessary means to achieve political and social change. He believed that oppressive systems should be overthrown to establish more just and equitable societies.

These themes collectively highlight Paine's vision for a world where individuals are free, equal, and governed by rational and just principles.

By Frederick Porter Wensley

“Forty Years of Scotland Yard” by Frederick Porter Wensley is an autobiographical account of Wensley’s extensive career in the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.) of Scotland Yard. The book provides a detailed narrative of his experiences, highlighting significant cases he worked on, including notorious crimes like the Houndsditch murders and the Sidney Street siege. Wensley shares insights into the evolution of detective work, the challenges faced by the police, and the methods used to solve complex cases. His stories reflect the gritty reality of crime in early 20th-century London and the relentless pursuit of justice by the detectives of Scotland Yard. Throughout the book, Wensley emphasizes the importance of thoroughness, patience, and resourcefulness in detective work. He recounts various encounters with criminals, ranging from cunning burglars to violent gangsters, and illustrates how meticulous investigation and collaboration with colleagues led to successful resolutions. Wensley’s memoir also sheds light on the personal qualities required for effective policing, such as courage, integrity, and a keen understanding of human nature. His reflections offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of a detective and the inner workings of one of the world’s most famous police forces.

NY. Garden City Publishing Company, Inc.. 1931. Read-Me.Org 2025. 202p.

BUY ON AMAZON . ALL PROCEEDS GO DIRECTLY TO READ-ME.ORG.

Edited by J. W. Cross

"George Eliot's Life" by J.W. Cross is a three-volume biography that provides a detailed account of the life of the renowned author George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans). Compiled by her husband, John Walter Cross, the biography is based on her letters and journals, offering a unique perspective on her personal and professional life.

Volume 1 covers Eliot's early life from 1819 to 1857. It begins with her childhood, her move to Coventry, and her early literary career. It also details her travels to Geneva and her initial forays into writing[1].

Volume 2: The second volume spans the years 1857 to 1870, focusing on Eliot's rise to literary fame. It includes her relationships with key figures in the literary world, her partnership with George Henry Lewes, and the publication of her major works such as "Adam Bede" and "Middlemarch"[1].

Volume 3: This final volume covers Eliot's later years, from 1870 until her death in 1880. It discusses her continued literary success, her marriage to John Cross, and her reflections on her life and work. It also includes insights into her personal struggles and triumphs[1].

These volumes provide a comprehensive look at George Eliot's life, though some critics have noted that Cross's portrayal may lack some of the "salt and spice" of Eliot's unconventional life[2][1].

Originally published by HARPER & BROTHERS, FRANKLIN SQUARE. 1885.

The four volumes of Thomas Paine's writings, edited by Moncure Daniel Conway, offer a comprehensive collection of Paine's influential works. Here's a brief summary of each volume:

1. Volume 1 includes early political writings, such as Common Sense and The American Crisis. These works were pivotal in inspiring American colonists to seek independence from Britain. Paine's clear and persuasive arguments helped galvanize public opinion in favor of the revolutionary cause[1].

2. Volume 2 focuses on Paine's writings during the French Revolution. It includes "Rights of Man," in which Paine defends the Revolution and argues for natural rights and democratic government. His critiques of monarchy and advocacy for social reforms are central themes.

3. Volume 3 contains Paine's religious and philosophical writings, most notably "The Age of Reason." In this work, Paine critiques organized religion and promotes deism, emphasizing reason and scientific inquiry over religious dogma.

4. Volume 4: This final volume includes Paine's later political and social writings, such as "Agrarian Justice." In it, Paine discusses economic inequality and proposes a form of social security funded by a landowner tax. The volume also includes various letters and essays on political and social issues.

These volumes collectively showcase Paine's profound impact on political thought and his enduring legacy as a champion of liberty, equality, and reason.

John Bunyan (1628-1688) was a prolific English writer and preacher, best known for his allegorical works that reflect his deep Christian faith and experiences. Here's an overview of some of his most notable works:

1. The Pilgrim's Progress: This is Bunyan's most famous work, an allegory of a Christian's journey from the "City of Destruction" to the "Celestial City." It is divided into two parts, following the protagonist, Christian, and later his wife, Christiana.

2. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: This autobiographical work details Bunyan's spiritual journey and conversion, offering a candid look at his inner struggles and ultimate redemption.

3. The Holy War: Another allegory, this book depicts the battle for the town of Mansoul, representing the human soul, between Shaddai (God) and Diabolus (Satan).

4. The Life and Death of Mr. Badman: This work is a companion to The Pilgrim's Progress, presenting a contrasting narrative of a wicked man's life and the consequences of his sinful actions.

5. The Heavenly Footman: A treatise encouraging Christians to persevere in their faith and strive for spiritual goals, using the metaphor of a race.

6. The Barren Fig Tree: This work explores the Bible parable of the barren fig tree, emphasizing the importance of repentance and bearing spiritual fruit.

Bunyan's writings are characterized by vivid imagery, deep theological insights, and practical applications for Christian living. They have had a lasting impact on Christian literature and continue to be widely read and studied.

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By American Immigration Council

The Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees birthright citizenship to every child born "within the jurisdiction of the United States.” The 1898 Supreme Court case of United States v. Wong Kim Ark established an important precedent in its interpretation of the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment in that it cemented birthright citizenship for children of all immigrants. For over a century, anyone born on U.S. soil has automatically been conferred citizenship at birth regardless of their parents’ immigration or citizenship status. While most legal scholars across the political spectrum have maintained that the Fourteenth Amendment interpreted through Wong Kim Ark unequivocally extends birthright citizenship to anyone born in the United States, anti-immigrant political factions have pushed to restrict birthright citizenship—primarily, attempting to deny it to children born in the United States to undocumented immigrant parents. In 2019, then-President Donald Trump announced to reporters that he was looking “very seriously” at ending birthright citizenship, a warning that lacked details and did not come to fruition.

This fact sheet explains:

• What Is Birthright Citizenship?

• The Fourteenth Amendment and Its Interpretations.

• Who is Eligible for Birthright Citizenship?

• Can Birthright Citizenship Be Taken Away?

Washington, DC: American Immigration Council, 2024. 12p.

Complied by Jane Sinclair

The document is an excerpt from“Traits and Stories of the Irish Peasantry”by WilliamCarleton, specifically from Volume III. It includes various tales such as“Ned M’Keown,” “The Three Tasks,” “Shane Fadh’sWedding,” and others. The narrative focuses on the lives and interactions of Irish peasants, capturing the essence of rural life in Ireland. Key characters include Ned M’Keown, a speculative merchant known for his failed ventures and humorous dynamics with his wife, Nancy, and Jack Magennis, a dutiful son who faces a series of magical challenges. The stories are rich in dialogue and local color, providing a vivid portrayal of the characters and their environment, highlighting themes of hospitality, community, and the interplay between tradition and change in Irish society.The tales blend humor, superstition, and the supernatural, showcasing the cultural and social dynamics of the Irish peasantry. For instance, Jack Magennis encounters a dark man and a talking dog who offer him a chance to win a fortune, leading to a series of magical tasks that he completes with the help of a mysterious lady. Other stories, like “Shane Fahad's Wedding,”depict traditional customs and the lively social interactions at events love weddings. The narrative style is engaging, with a mix of humorous and serious tones, reflecting the complexities of life in rural Ireland. Overall, the document provides a rich and multifaceted view of Irish peasant life, emphasizing the importance of community, resilience, and the enduring influence of folklore and tradition.

P.F. Collier, 1881, 1,045 pages

By James A. Williamson

The book “A Short History of British Expansion” by James A. Williamson provides a comprehensive overview of the British Empire’s growth and development, focusing on key historical events, policies, and figures that shaped its expansion. The fourth edition,published in 1958, includes revisions and extensions to cover events up to the end of 1952.

Industrial and Agricultural Revolutions (1783-1870):The effects of the American secession and the Industrial Revolution,including advancements in oceanic trade, factory enterprise, and transport. The Agricultural Revolution’s impact on increased output and enclosures.

Population Growth: Diverse views on the social effects of the revolutions.oSignificant growth in British and Irish populations and 19th-century emigration.

Fundamental Ideas:oShifts in national outlook pre-and post-1870.oThe rise of free trade, influenced by Adam Smith’s“Wealth of Nations,”andthe Manchester School’s economic reforms.

Oceanic Expansion:oExploration of the Pacific and improvements in shipping and navigation.oKey voyages by Cook, Vancouver, and others, and the impact of theNapoleonic Wars on colonial policies.

Great Britain and Latin America: The emancipation of Spanish colonies and the opening of China and Japan. Changes in oceanic trade and the development of new trades like tea, rice,and jute.

Colonial Administration: Changes in colonial governance post-American secession.oThe rise of Radical imperialists and the Manchester School’s influence on free trade and colonial self-government.

Macmillan, 1967, 391 pages

MAY COTAIN MARKUP

Edited by Peter Quennell

Publication and Influence: First published in 1851, Mayhew’s work influencedCharles Dickens and provided a background for his novels. A new edition with improvements appeared ten years later, and a fourth volume was added in 1862.

Abridged Edition: Quennell’s edition focuses on the graphic and personal side ofMayhew’s survey, offering a detailed panorama of London in the1850s.

Social Classes: The book categorizes various street people, including costermongers, patterers, street performers, and mechanics, detailing their habits,amusements, and social dynamics.

Costermongers: A significant portion of the document is dedicated to costermongers, their unique slang, economic practices, and community life. It Discusses their gambling habits, political views, and interactions with the police.

Education and Language: The document highlights the uneducated state of costermongers, their distinctive slang language, and the education of their children.

Honesty and Conveyances: Insights into the honesty among costermongers, their conveyances, and the Smithfield races where they buy their donkeys.

Daily Life and Work: Costermongers operate in various parts of London, often in poorer neighborhoods, starting their day early to buy goods from markets like Billingsgate.

Economic Practices: Many do not own their stock or equipment, borrowing at high interest rates. They use slang weights and measures to maximize profits.

Spring Books, 1851, 592 pages

By ALICE WILLARD SOLENBERGER

This book is a detailed study of 1,000 homeless men in Chicago, conducted by Alice Willard Solenberger. It examines their physical conditions, causes of homelessness, and social remedies early in the 20th century.. Solenberger applied charity organization methods to homeless men, similar to those used for families, to understand and address their needs more effectively.. The study highlights the inadequate treatment of homeless men and suggests that personalized, in-depth approaches can lead to better outcomes and contains extensive raw data and information. Finally, it emphasizes the need for better laws and facilities to support homeless individuals and reduce vagrancy.

NY. Russell Sage Foundation. 1911. 397p.

By Peter Nagle and Richard Summerrell

On 10 August 1987 the then Prime Minister, the Honourable R J L Hawke, announced the formation of a Royal Commission to investigate the causes of deaths of Aboriginals while held in State and Territory jails. The Royal Commission was established in response to a growing public concern that deaths in custody of Aboriginal people were too common and poorly explained. This Commonwealth Royal Commission was the 108th since Federation. The establishment of the Commission and the appointment of the Honourable Mr Justice Muirhead as Royal Commissioner had the support of all State and Territory governments….Access to records collected or created by government has always been subject to opposing pressures. Access to records is seen as providing a check on arbitrary government power, but privacy considerations and other sensitivities also need to be protected….”

National Archives of Australia. 1996. 85p.

Edited by William Gervase & Clarence-Smith

Significant Slave Trade: Over a million slaves were exported from Indian Ocean and Red Sea ports in Eastern Africa during the 19th century, with millions more moved within the continent.

Economic Impact: The slave trade expanded significantly in the 19th century, driven by demand for labor in the western Indian Ocean and improved maritime security.

Diverse Uses: Slaves were used in various roles, including laborers, concubines, eunuchs, and administrators, with significant numbers employed in agriculture, urban economies, and domestic roles.

Regional Variations: The nature and scale of slavery varied across regions, with some areas like Zanzibar and Pemba having plantation systems similar to the New World, while others had more subsistence-based servitude.

Frank Cass & Co Ltd., 1989, 222 pages

Edited by David Ryden

Economic Challenges: British West Indian planters faced rising slave prices, higher provisioning costs, and warfare on the high seas, making sugar planting increasingly costly.

Political and Social Threats: Planters were anxious about slave uprisings and the anti-slave trade movement, which threatened their industry.

Pro-Slavery Arguments: Pro-slavery writers defended the slave trade using arguments based on mercantilism, imperialism, and humanitarianism, emphasizing national wealth and security.

References: The document includes various pamphlets and reports defending the slave trade, providing insight into 18th-century attitudes toward race, work, and power.

London Pickering & Chatto, 2003, 428 pages

Edited by John Oldfield

British Dominance and Abolition: The British were the leading nation in the transatlantic slave trade during the 18th century but also spearheaded the abolition movement.

Economic vs. Moral Debate: Historians debate whether the abolition was driven by economic decline in the British Caribbean or by moral and humanitarian reasons.

Abolitionist Campaigns: The Society for Effecting the Abolition of theSlave Trade, formed in 1787, played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion through petitions, pamphlets, and international cooperation.

Impact of the American Revolution: The American Revolution influenced British abolitionist thought, linking political representation and freedom with the fight against slavery.

London Pickering & Chatto, 2003, 373 pages

Edited by Kenneth Morgan

Royal African Company: Established in 1672, it played a significant role in the British transatlantic slave trade, supplying slaves from Africa to the Americas, especially the British Caribbean

Challenges and Decline: The company faced financial pressures, competition from private traders, and difficulties in maintaining its forts and settlements in West Africa, leading to its decline.

Historical Context: The document provides detailed accounts of the company's operations, financial struggles, and the broader context of the British involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.

References: The document includes multiple historical texts and references related to the Royal African Company and the British slave trade.

London Pickering & Chatto, 2003, 345 pages

The Transatlantic Slave Trade Volume 1 Edited by Robin Law

British Involvement: The British were major participants in the transatlantic slave trade from 1660 to 1807, transporting over 3 million enslaved Africans to the New World

Economic Impact: The slave trade was integral to the British Empire's growth, stimulating shipbuilding, port development, and long-distance trade

Abolition Movement: Despite their involvement in the slave trade, Britain also led the abolitionist movement, culminating in the abolition of the slave trade in 1807 and slavery itself in 1834.

References: The document contains numerous references and excerpts from historical texts and accounts related to the slave trade.

London Pickering & Chatto, 2003, 387 pages

By Thomas Clarkson

This book details the efforts and challenges faced by Thomas Clarkson and others in the abolition of the African slave trade by the British Parliament from 1768 to 1807. Clarkson traveled extensively to gather evidence against the slave trade, facing significant difficulties and opposition. Various committees were formed across the UK to support the abolition cause, including those in Poole, Bristol, and Manchester. The committee published numerous works to educate and mobilize public opinion against the slave trade.

British Parliament. Read-Me.Org Classic Reprint. 2024 (1808). 592p.

By Thomas Clarkson

This book provides a detailed history of the abolition of the African slave trade by the British Parliament, highlighting the significant figures and events involved. It mentions influential individuals like Granville Sharp, William Pitt, and Charles James Fox, who played crucial roles in the abolition movement, outlines the various challenges faced by abolitionists ,and the extensive efforts made to gather evidence and support for the cause.The role of Christianity in promoting the abolition of the slave trade and improving moral conditions is discussed.

British Parliament. Read-Me.Org. classic reprint. 2024 ( 1808). 580p.

Edited By William Gervase Clarence-Smith

Over a million slaves were exported from Indian Ocean and Red Sea ports in Eastern Africa during the 19th century, with millions more moved within the continent[. The slave trade expanded significantly in the 19th century, driven by demand for labor in the western Indian Ocean and improved maritime security. Slaves were used in various roles, including laborers, concubines, eunuchs, and administrators, with significant numbers employed in agriculture, urban economies, and domestic roles.: The nature and scale of slavery varied across regions, with some areas like Zanzibar and Pemba having plantation systems similar to the New World, while others had more subsistence-based servitude.

FRANK CASS AND COMPANY LIMITED. Gainsborough House, Gainsborough Road, London. 1989. 228p.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

Between 1889 and 1918, 3,224 people were lynched in the U.S., with 78.2% being African Americans. The South had the highest number of lynchings, with Georgia, Mississippi, and Texas leading.While lynchings decreased over the 30-year period, the South saw a slower decline compared to the North and West. Despite appeals from leaders like President Wilson, lynchings continued, and mob members were rarely convicted.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People National Ofce 70 Fifth Avenue, New York. APRIL, 1919. 102p.