Good Stories For Great Birthdays - free ebook by Frances Jenkins Olcott

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Good Stories For Great Birthdays

Frances Jenkins Olcott

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231 chapters

GOOD STORIES FOR GREAT BIRTHDAYS

GOOD STORIES FOR GREAT BIRTHDAYS

ARRANGED FOR STORY-TELLING AND READING ALOUD AND FOR THE CHILDREN’S OWN READING BY FRANCES JENKINS OLCOTT WITH ILLUSTRATIONS Image unavailable BOSTON AND NEW YORK HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY The Riverside Press Cambridge COPYRIGHT, 1922, BY FRANCES JENKINS OLCOTT ALL RIGHTS RESERVED The Riverside Press CAMBRIDGE · MASSACHUSETTS PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. GRATEFULLY DEDICATED TO FRANCES MARY JENKINS OLCOTT January 25 Here are over 200 stories celebrating 23 great birthdays of patriot-founders and upbuild

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TREATMENT OF HISTORY FOR CHILDREN

TREATMENT OF HISTORY FOR CHILDREN

These tales are not packed full of dry facts and dates, boring to children. Instead, they treat history in a manner appealing to boys and girls. For it is the strong personalities that moved in the big events of the world, it is the forceful lives of the men themselves, their preparation in boyhood for successful careers, their struggles for right, their heroism, devotion, and high adventure, as well as the why and wherefore of things, which make history an intense reality to children and young

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SOME OF OUR HEROES

SOME OF OUR HEROES

Here are stories of Washington, Hamilton, John Adams, and John Marshall showing them not cold and wooden, but warm and vital; also tales of great-hearted Lincoln, and of America’s very human hero, Roosevelt. And exceedingly human, too, are Light Horse Harry, the Sage of Monticello, Old Hickory, Brother Jonathan, Old Put, and the Great Commoner, who, with words as powerful as sword-strokes, fought America’s battles. Among the women, the mothers and wives helping to win the Wars for Independence i

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NO HISTORICAL FICTION

NO HISTORICAL FICTION

There is no historical fiction here. The larger number of the stories are original, written purposely for this volume. Every detail is historical, and every conversation is based on an authority. A partial list of the histories and biographies consulted while writing the stories, may be found on page xiv . When historians have not agreed as to dates and facts, the most reliable sources have been followed. Of the stories attributed to authors, some have been recast to meet the requirements of sto

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TEACHING AMERICAN SOLIDARITY

TEACHING AMERICAN SOLIDARITY

In as far as possible, all tales of sectional differences, of political animosities, and of civil strife, have been avoided. The emphasis in this book is upon American Solidarity. Pioneers of progress inevitably arouse bitter antagonists. It would require a large volume indeed, to treat of the derogatory statements and written attacks which have been levelled at most of the men whose birthdays we are celebrating. We know that Columbus suffered severely from attacks by enemies, that Washington wa

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HELPFUL TO TEACHERS

HELPFUL TO TEACHERS

May it be said right here, with emphasis, that this book is not intended to take the place of suitable biographies of the men whose birthdays we are celebrating. Entertaining, lively tales should, on the contrary, lead boys and girls to want to know more about their favourite heroes. And the teacher may use these short stories not merely to illustrate American history textbooks, but to strengthen the children’s love of Country, to teach them the meaning of American Unity, and to give them a more

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FOR MOTHERS, ALSO

FOR MOTHERS, ALSO

But above all else, may this book, day by day, help mothers and educators to bring to the children’s remembrance on these great birthdays, something of the devotion, the patience, the sufferings, and the personal sacrifice of the noble men, who, under the good hand of God, laid the foundations of American Liberty and Self-Government....

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Grateful acknowledgments are due the following Publishers and Authors, for material from their books:— To Houghton Mifflin Company for material from books by Edward Arber, Albert J. Beveridge, John Fiske, Henry Cabot Lodge, John T. Morse, James Parton, James B. Thayer, William Roscoe Thayer, and John Greenleaf Whittier. To the New York Evening Post for stories written for its columns by the author of this book. To the New York Times for “A Lock of Washington’s Hair,” by T. R. Ybarra. To D. Apple

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COLUMBUS

COLUMBUS

Christopher Columbus was born in Italy, about 1451 First landed on an island of America, October 12, 1492 Sighted South America, 1498 Was sent in chains to Spain, 1500 Returned from his Fourth Voyage, 1504 He died, May 20, 1506 His name in Spanish is Cristobal Colon....

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THE SEA OF DARKNESS

THE SEA OF DARKNESS

Before America was ever heard of, over four hundred years ago, a boy lived in Genoa the Proud City. He was just one of hundreds of boys in that beautiful Italian town, whose palaces, marble villas, and churches climbed her picturesque hillsides. The boy’s name was Christopher Columbus. Whenever he could leave his father’s workshop, where he was learning to comb wool, for his father was a weaver, how eagerly the boy must have run down to the wharfs and sat there watching the ships come and go. Th

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THE FORTUNATE ISLES

THE FORTUNATE ISLES

Listen now to some of the stories that the Irish sailors who visited Genoa, told when Columbus was a boy. And people in those days, believed them to be true. They told how far, far in the West, where the sun set in crimson splendour, lay the Terrestrial Paradise from which Adam and Eve were driven. And other wonder tales the sailors told. One was the enchanting tale of Maeldune, the Celtic Knight, who seeking his father’s murderer, sailed over the wide Atlantic in a coracle of skins lapped three

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THE ABSURD TRUTH

THE ABSURD TRUTH

When Columbus was a boy, there was a story told that the Earth was round. Nearly every one who heard it thought it foolish—absurd. “The Earth round!” they said; “do we not know that the Earth is flat? And does not the sun set each night at the edge of the World?” But young Columbus had a powerful, practical imagination. He believed there were good reasons to think that the Earth was not flat. He attended the University of Pavia. He studied astronomy and other sciences. He learned map-making. He

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CATHAY THE GOLDEN

CATHAY THE GOLDEN

Where was Cathay the Golden? Who was Kublai Khan? One of Columbus’s favourite books was written by Marco Polo, the great Venetian traveller, who served Kublai, Grand Khan of Tartary in Asia. Cathay was the name which Marco Polo gave to China. In his book, Marco Polo told of many marvels. In the chief city of Cathay the Golden, ruled over by Kublai Khan, stood the Grand Khan’s palace. Its walls were covered with gold and silver, and adorned with figures of dragons, beasts, and birds. Its lofty ro

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THE EMERALD ISLANDS Columbus’s Day, October 12, 1492

THE EMERALD ISLANDS Columbus’s Day, October 12, 1492

It was with songs of praise, that Columbus first landed on one of those emerald islands of the New World. And what delightful islands they were, sparkling with streams, and filled with trees of great height. There were fruits, flowers, and honey in abundance. Among the large leaves and bright blossoms, flocks of birds sang and called. There were cultivated fields of Indian corn. And there were savages, naked dark-skinned folk, who peeped from behind trees, or ran frightened away. Later they grew

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THE MAGNIFICENT RETURN

THE MAGNIFICENT RETURN

It was a day of great rejoicing when Columbus returned to Spain. The whole country rose up to do him honour. Bells were rung, mass was said, and vast crowds cheered him as he passed along streets and highways. No one called him a fool and madman then. Had he not crossed the Sea of Darkness and returned alive? Neither nautilus, gigantic hand, nor polypus had dared to harm him. The Sea of Darkness was a mysterious gloomy sea no longer, instead it was the wide Atlantic Ocean, a safe pathway for bra

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THE FATAL PEARLS

THE FATAL PEARLS

Tierra Firme It was in May, 1498. The fleet of Admiral Don Christopher Columbus, in the name of the Holy Trinity, set sail from Spain for a third voyage across the Atlantic. It was no longer a Sea of Darkness to Columbus, but a sure pathway to golden lands. There he still hoped to find the Earthly Paradise from which Adam and Eve had been driven. And there too, he still expected to discover Cathay the Golden in Tartary, and Cipango, the great island of the western sea, which we call Japan. His s

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QUEEN ISABELLA’S PAGE

QUEEN ISABELLA’S PAGE

Off to find Kublai Khan, to drink from his golden cups, to eat from his silvern plates, to ride his elephants, to visit in his great palace, and, perhaps, to discover the Earthly Paradise—what more thrilling adventure could a boy want? So Ferdinand Columbus, Queen Isabella’s page, eager for adventure, set sail with his father Columbus, to cross the Sea of Darkness and explore beyond the emerald islands. For, while his father, on his former voyage, had been gathering pearls among the Pearl Island

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THE TWIN CITIES

THE TWIN CITIES

While Columbus was exploring the coast of Central America, he fell sick of a fever. He had a dream. He tells us of this dream in his own letters. He dreamed that a compassionate Voice spoke to him, bidding him believe in God, and serve Him who had had him from infancy in His constant and watchful care, and who had chosen him to unlock the barriers of the Ocean Sea. This Voice said many things to Columbus, adding these words, “Even now He partially shows thee the reward of so many toils and dange

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THE PEARLS AGAIN

THE PEARLS AGAIN

The curse of the pearls still held strong after Columbus’s death. News of the discovery of the Pearl Islands in the New World, spread rapidly through Europe. Many cruel and greedy pearl-hunters hastened to set out for the islands. They pillaged the native villages. They hunted the Indians like wild beasts. They forced them to work in the mines. But, worst of all, they made them dive into the deep sea for pearls, under the most horrible conditions. Then it was that the compassionate friend of the

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THE BOY OF GREAT TOWER HILL

THE BOY OF GREAT TOWER HILL

In a house on Great Tower Hill near London Wall, was born William Penn, who was to become the Founder of Pennsylvania. He was christened William after his ancestor, Penn of Penn’s Lodge. He was a charming baby, with round face, soft blue eyes, and curling hair. His father, Captain Penn, who had been called home to see the new baby on that first birthday of little William Penn, went back to his ship rejoicing that he had such a handsome son and heir. When William Penn was ten years old, a strange

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HE WORE IT AS LONG AS HE COULD

HE WORE IT AS LONG AS HE COULD

When William Penn became a Friend, he did not immediately leave off his gay apparel, as other Friends did. He even wore a sword, as was customary among men of rank and fashion. One day, being with George Fox the great leader of the Friends, he asked his advice about wearing the sword, saying that it had once been the means of saving his life without injuring his antagonist, and that moreover Christ has said, “He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one.” “I advise thee,” answered

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THE PEACEMAKER

THE PEACEMAKER

“ He must not be a man but a statue of brass or stone, whose bowels do not melt when he beholds the bloody tragedies of this war in Hungary, Germany, Flanders, Ireland, and at sea; the mortality of sickly and languishing camps and navies; and the mighty prey the devouring winds and waves have made upon ships and men,” wrote William Penn over two hundred years ago. It was then that William Penn became the peacemaker. The world was in the midst of a terrible war. William Penn did not believe in wa

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WESTWARD HO, AND AWAY!

WESTWARD HO, AND AWAY!

The time arrived when William Penn’s peaceful thoughts went sailing over the Atlantic, westward ho, and away! For he was appointed a trustee of Jersey in America. There came to him while he was still in England, news of immense tracts of land lying beyond Jersey, so fertile that under cultivation they would yield harvests unparalleled in his island home. He heard of rich minerals, of noble forests, of river-banks offering splendid sites for towns and cities, of bays where proud navies might ride

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THE CITY OF BROTHERLY LOVE

THE CITY OF BROTHERLY LOVE

With what delight did William Penn first set foot on the shore of the Delaware River. It was Autumn. The sweet clear air, the serene skies, the trees, fruits, and flowers, filled him with a wellnigh unspeakable joy. And later, while being rowed up the river in a barge, he saw the ancient forest trees on either bank, their leaves flaming with red, gold, and amber. He saw flocks of wild fowl rise up from the water, and fly screaming overhead. The solitude and grandeur of the wilderness brooded ove

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THE PLACE OF KINGS

THE PLACE OF KINGS

It was the last of November. The lofty forest trees on the shore of the Delaware had shed their summer attire. The ground was strewn with leaves. A Council-fire was burning brightly beneath a huge Elm, not far from the City of Brotherly Love. It was an ancient Elm, which for over a hundred years had guarded Shackamaxon, the Place of Kings. For long before the Pale-faces had landed on the shore of the Delaware, Indian Sachems, Kings of the Red Skins, had held their friendly councils in its shade,

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ONAS

ONAS

After the Treaty was made at the Place of Kings, the Lenni Lenapé, for many years enjoyed the mild and just rule of their “elder brother Onas.” He met them often around the Council-fire, hearing and rectifying their wrongs, adjusting trade matters, and smoking with them the Pipe of Peace. And William Penn made treaties with the Indians who dwelt on the Potomac, and with the Five Nations. Thus Pennsylvania had quiet; and the Red Men were friends of the settlers. Sometimes they brought the white m

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THE SQUARE DEAL

THE SQUARE DEAL

We of the great modern democracies, must strive unceasingly to make our several Countries, lands in which a poor man who works hard can live comfortably and honestly, and in which a rich man cannot live dishonestly nor in slothful avoidance of duty. And yet, we must judge rich man and poor man alike by a standard which rests on conduct and not on caste. And we must frown with the same stern severity on the mean and vicious envy which hates and would plunder a man because he is well off, and on t

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THE BOY WHO GREW STRONG

THE BOY WHO GREW STRONG

Not in a Log Cabin Theodore Roosevelt , unlike Abraham Lincoln, was not born in a log cabin. On the contrary, he was born to wealth and position in the City of New York. He was reared in an elegant home and educated in one of the famous universities of the Country. He read law, but he had no need to practise a profession. His father had retired from business, and there was no occasion for the son to take up a business career. But Theodore Roosevelt preferred for himself a life of toil—the strenu

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SAGAMORE HILL His Home at Oyster Bay From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

SAGAMORE HILL His Home at Oyster Bay From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

Sagamore Hill takes its name from the old Sagamore Mohannis, who, as Chief of his little tribe, signed away his rights to the land, two centuries and a half ago. The house stands right on the top of the hill, separated by fields and belts of woodland from all other houses, and looks out over the Bay and the Sound. We see the sun go down beyond long reaches of land and of water. Many birds dwell in the trees round the house or in the pastures and the woods near by. And, of course, in Winter gulls

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THE CHILDREN OF SAGAMORE HILL

THE CHILDREN OF SAGAMORE HILL

Mrs. Roosevelt looked after the place itself. She supervised the farming, and the flower gardens were her especial care. The children were now growing up, and from the time when they could toddle, they took their place—a very large place—in the life of the home. Roosevelt described the intense satisfaction he had in teaching the boys what his father had taught him. As soon as they were large enough, they rode their horses, they sailed on the Cove and out into the Sound. They played boys’ games,

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OFF WITH JOHN BURROUGHS From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

OFF WITH JOHN BURROUGHS From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

One April, I went to Yellowstone Park, when the snow was still very deep, and I took John Burroughs with me. I wished to show him the big game of the Park, the wild creatures that have become so astonishingly tame and tolerant of human presence. In the Yellowstone, the animals seem always to behave as one wishes them to! It is always possible to see the sheep, and deer, and antelope, and also the great herds of elk, which are shyer than the smaller beasts. In April, we found the elk weak after t

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THE BIG STICK

THE BIG STICK

I saw in Roosevelt a strong man, who had taken early to heart Hamlet’s maxim, and had steadfastly practised it:— He himself summed up this part of his philosophy in a phrase which has become a proverb:— More than once in his later years, he quoted this to me, adding, that it was precisely because this or that Power knew that he carried a big stick, that he was enabled to speak softly with effect. William Roscoe Thayer ( Condensed )...

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A-HUNTING TREES WITH JOHN MUIR From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

A-HUNTING TREES WITH JOHN MUIR From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

When I first visited California, it was my good fortune to see the “big trees,” the Sequoias, and then to travel down into the Yosemite with John Muir. Of course, of all people in the world, he was the one with whom it was best worth while thus to see the Yosemite.... John Muir met me with a couple of packers and two mules to carry our tent, bedding, and food for a three days’ trip. The first night was clear, and we lay down in the darkening aisles of the great Sequoia grove. The majestic trunks

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THE BEAR HUNTERS’ DINNER From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

THE BEAR HUNTERS’ DINNER From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

When wolf-hunting in Texas, and when bear-hunting in Louisiana and Mississippi, I was not only enthralled by the sport but also by the strange new birds and other creatures, and the trees and flowers I had not known before. By the way, there was one feast at the White House, which stands above all others in my memory, this was “The Bear Hunters’ Dinner.” I had been treated so kindly by my friends on these hunts, and they were such fine fellows, men whom I was so proud to think of as Americans, t

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HUNTING IN AFRICA From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

HUNTING IN AFRICA From Roosevelt’s Autobiography

The African buffalo is undoubtedly a dangerous beast, but it happened that the few that I shot did not charge. A bull elephant, a vicious “rogue” which had been killing people in the native villages, did charge before being shot at. My son Kermit and I stopped it at forty yards. Another bull elephant, also unwounded, which charged, nearly got me, as I had just fired both cartridges from my heavy double-barreled rifle, in killing the bull I was after—the first wild elephant I had ever seen. The s

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THE EVER FAITHFUL ISLAND

THE EVER FAITHFUL ISLAND

Now , let us see what Theodore Roosevelt did to help establish Liberty in this Hemisphere. It is a far cry from the Very Magnificent Don Christopher Columbus, Admiral of the Ocean Sea, and discoverer of the West Indies and South America, to plain Theodore Roosevelt of Oyster Bay and citizen of the United States of North America. Yet it was a very direct cry, a ringing call down through four centuries, a never ceasing plea for Liberty and safety. And it was plain Colonel Theodore Roosevelt who, w

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THE COLONEL OF THE ROUGH RIDERS

THE COLONEL OF THE ROUGH RIDERS

In the name of humanity, in the name of civilization, in behalf of endangered American interests, which give us the right and the duty to speak and act, the war in Cuba must stop. President McKinley Roosevelt had always felt the danger to the United States of maintaining a despicable or an inadequate Navy, and from the moment he entered the Navy Department, he set about pushing the construction of the unfinished vessels and of improving the quality of the personnel. He was impelled to do this, n

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THE RIVER OF DOUBT

THE RIVER OF DOUBT

Roosevelt decided to make one more trip for hunting and exploration. As he could not go to the North Pole, he said, because that would be poaching on Peary’s field, he selected South America. He had long wished to visit the Southern Continent, and invitations to speak at Rio Janeiro and at Buenos Aires, gave him an excuse for setting out. He started with the distinct purpose of collecting animal and botanical specimens, this time for the American Museum of Natural History in New York, which prov

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THEODORE ROOSEVELT

THEODORE ROOSEVELT

The evil men do lives after them; so does the good. With the passing of years, a man’s name and fame either drift into oblivion or they are seen in their lasting proportions. You must sail fifty miles over the Ionian Sea and look back, before you can fully measure the magnitude and majesty of Mount Ætna. Not otherwise, I believe, will it be with Theodore Roosevelt, when the people of the future look back upon him. The blemishes due to misunderstanding will have faded away. The transient clouds w

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INDEPENDENCE DAY

INDEPENDENCE DAY

I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the Day of Deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp, and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, tend illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward, for ever more. John Adams was born in Braintree, or Quincy, Massachusetts, October 30, 1735 Was a member

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A SON OF LIBERTY

A SON OF LIBERTY

There was no loftier genius nor purer Patriot during the struggle for Independence, than John Adams. He was born at Braintree—now a part of Quincy—Massachusetts. He was descended from Henry Adams who came to America during the reign of Charles the First. On his mother’s side, he was descended from John Alden, the Pilgrim Father who came over in the Mayflower . Thus, from both sides of his house, John Adams inherited staunch, fearless, English blood and love of Independence. He went to school in

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THE ADAMS FAMILY

THE ADAMS FAMILY

John Adams was not the only great American Patriot in his Family. His cousin, Samuel Adams, was a popular and fearless leader in the movement for Independence. His activities were so feared by England, that the Government issued orders for his arrest and trial for high treason. Abigail Adams, John Adams’s wife, was one of the noble American women who helped to win the War for Independence. She kept her husband informed of the movements of the British around Boston, while he was attending the Con

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AID TO THE SISTER COLONY

AID TO THE SISTER COLONY

It was a clear and frosty night—that night, when the moonbeams fell on the tea thrown overboard by the Boston Tea Party. Paul Revere, all booted and spurred, was ready for a famous ride—not the one to Lexington, but to Philadelphia this time. Soon he was off and away, galloping southward, spreading, as he rode along, the astonishing news that Boston Town had at last defied King George. There were public rejoicings everywhere, as the news was passed along. “This,” said John Adams exultingly, “is

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A FAMOUS DATE

A FAMOUS DATE

September 5, 1774! What a famous date in American history! And in the history of the whole World! On that day, met for the first time, the Continental Congress of America. From Colony after Colony, the delegates came riding into Philadelphia. George Washington of Virginia came with fiery Patrick Henry, and Edmund Pendleton, “one of Virginia’s noblest sons.” There came Cæsar Rodney, “burley and big, bold and bluff,” with Thomas McKean and George Read, all from the three counties on the Delaware,

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WHAT A GLORIOUS MORNING!

WHAT A GLORIOUS MORNING!

When Paul Revere came galloping into Lexington, after warning the countryside that the British were coming to seize the powder and shot, he roused Samuel Adams and John Hancock, who were staying with friends. Paul Revere was come to warn them also; for the British General Gage had given orders for their arrest, and intended to send them to England to be tried for high treason. The British Government was specially afraid of John Hancock, one of the most daring and active of the Boston Patriots. “

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JOHN TO SAMUEL

JOHN TO SAMUEL

New England was in arms. Lexington and Concord had been fought, and Boston was being besieged by the New England Army. The Congress was discussing the defense of the whole Country. There were some members who wished the Congress to take over the New England Army and appoint a Commander-in-Chief. It was then that John Adams met his cousin Samuel Adams, in the State House yard. This is the way John Adams tells it:— “ ‘ What shall we do to get Congress to adopt our Army?’ said Samuel Adams to John

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A GENTLEMAN FROM VIRGINIA

A GENTLEMAN FROM VIRGINIA

So it happened, that John Adams rose in his seat, and moved that the Congress should adopt the Army of New England men, and appoint a Commander-in-Chief, adding, that he had in mind some one for that high command, “a gentleman from Virginia, who is among us, and very well known to all of us; a gentleman whose skill and experience as an officer, whose independent fortune, great talents and excellent universal character, would command the approbation of all America, and unite the cordial exertions

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THE BOY WHO BECAME PRESIDENT

THE BOY WHO BECAME PRESIDENT

“ My head is much too fickle, my thoughts are running after birds’ eggs, play, and trifles, till I get vexed with myself,” wrote little John Quincy Adams, nine years old, to his father John Adams. Those were terrible times. Little John Quincy’s thoughts were running after other things besides birds’ eggs. He could hear the thunder of British cannon and the answering roar of American guns. There was fighting very near him. From a hilltop, he could see the battle raging. He knew that some of the A

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HOW SHALL THE STARS BE PLACED?

HOW SHALL THE STARS BE PLACED?

On that great day, when the Congress of the United States adopted the Stars and Stripes as our National Flag, it resolved that the union should be Thirteen Stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation. And a new Constellation it was, Thirteen Stars of the Thirteen States united as one, a Constellation destined to shine on all the World—Liberty enlightening the World! But how should the Stars be grouped upon the Flag?—that was the question. John Adams suggested that they should

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THE MYSTERIOUS STRANGER

THE MYSTERIOUS STRANGER

A mysterious foreign stranger suddenly appeared in New York City, after John Adams had retired from the presidency. He was handsome, with beaming hazel eyes and flashing white teeth. He was graceful, with courtly manners. He called himself George Martin. But what his real name was, or what his mysterious purpose was, only a few people knew. He was dined and toasted by New York officials. He went to the City of Washington on his secret mission. He was granted private interviews by the President a

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HIS LAST TOAST

HIS LAST TOAST

It was the last day of June, 1826. In five days, it would be the Fourth of July—the Fiftieth Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams had been one of the committee to frame the Declaration. A neighbour was sitting with John Adams in his home in Quincy—that used to be Braintree. Ninety and one years old was John Adams! The neighbour was to be orator at the annual banquet on the Fourth of July. He had called to ask John Adams to compose the toast. “Independence for

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THIS TERRIBLE CORNET OF HORSE

THIS TERRIBLE CORNET OF HORSE

In the hilt of Napoleon’s ceremonial sword, was set a huge diamond, one of the largest in the world. It had been brought from India by “Diamond Pitt” of England, who had sold it to the Regent of France. “Diamond Pitt,” was Thomas Pitt. An adventurous young sailor, he had gone to India, and had started in business for himself as a trader. The British East India Company claimed the monopoly of trade in India. When the bold young Englishman, without so much as “by your leave,” started an opposition

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THE CHARTER OF LIBERTY The Signing of the Magna Carta, 1215

THE CHARTER OF LIBERTY The Signing of the Magna Carta, 1215

Magna Carta ! The Great Charter of the liberties of Englishmen! At Runnimede, the freemen of England through the action of their Barons, forced King John to sign and seal the Magna Carta. His tyrannous power was torn from him. He was forced to pledge himself to violate no longer the rights and privileges of English freemen. For, from times remote, human rights and liberties, protecting them from oppression by rulers, had been theirs by laws and by common consent. About a hundred years after the

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AMERICA’S DEFENDER

AMERICA’S DEFENDER

“ For the defence of Liberty, upon a general principle, upon a constitutional principle, it is a ground on which I stand firm, on which I dare meet any man. ” “ This Country had no right under Heaven to tax America! It is contrary to all the principles of justice and civil policy. ” “ If I were an American,” he exclaimed, “as I am an Englishman, while a foreign troop was landed in my Country, I never would lay down my arms—never—never—never! ” William Pitt , Earl of Chatham It was natural that a

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THE SONS OF LIBERTY

THE SONS OF LIBERTY

William Pitt was not the only English statesman who championed America. There was Lord Rockingham, at one time Prime Minister of England, also the Earl of Camden, and the celebrated Charles James Fox. And there was Edmund Burke, “one of the earliest friends of America,” with his scratch wig, round spectacles, and pockets stuffed with papers. He pleaded our cause so brilliantly that his hearers were dazzled by his oratory “with its passionate ardour, its poetic fancy, its amazing prodigality of r

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A LAST SCENE

A LAST SCENE

In 1778, a dramatic event took place in the House of Lords. William Pitt, old now and wasted by disease, but the fire of whose genius still burned bright and clear, was about to speak. France had acknowledged the Independence of the United States. Germany was planning to do so; while Spain stood ready to enter into an alliance with the Americans. England was at war with France. The situation of England seemed desperate. And on that dramatic day in the House of Lords, the Duke of Richmond was abo

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FREEDOM IN BRAZIL

FREEDOM IN BRAZIL

Dom Pedro was born December 2, 1825 Was made Emperor at five years of age, April 7, 1831 Visited the United States, 1876 His daughter, Princess Isabel, emancipated the slaves, 1888 He abdicated, and Brazil was proclaimed a Republic, 1889 Dom Pedro died, December 5, 1891....

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THE BRAZILS MAGNIFICENT

THE BRAZILS MAGNIFICENT

Robinson Crusoe , after escaping from Moorish slavery with the boy Xury, was rescued by a Portuguese ship bound for South America. He was carried by the ship’s captain to the Brazils. There he settled, bought a plantation and made a fortune. Then, away from those same Brazils, he sailed and was wrecked and cast upon his Desert Island. Magnificent and rich were Robinson Crusoe’s Brazils, or the Country of Brazil, stretching vast and unknown far westward into the interior of the continent. Near th

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THE EMPIRE OF THE SOUTHERN CROSS

THE EMPIRE OF THE SOUTHERN CROSS

Brazil , on which the Southern Cross of four bright stars, looks down, first became a Kingdom, then an Empire and after that a Republic. When Napoleon’s Army threatened to invade Portugal, the Royal Family of Portugal fled in terror of their lives. They escaped from Lisbon, crossed the Atlantic, and found refuge in the royal Colony of Brazil. In 1815, Brazil was declared a Kingdom, though still to remain a part of Portugal. The first and only European Kingdom in America! When the time arrived, t

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MAKING THE LITTLE EMPEROR

MAKING THE LITTLE EMPEROR

“ The King is afloat! God save the King!” were the shouts which rang through the streets of Rio Janeiro, for now that their Emperor Pedro the First had abdicated and escaped on an English man-o-war, the people were giving themselves up to rejoicing. “The King is afloat! God save the King!” was the cry of the townspeople and the streets, festooned with coffee branches, were made to glow with coloured silks, while the balconies were thronged with señoritas in all their finery of brilliant dresses,

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THE PATRIOT EMPEROR

THE PATRIOT EMPEROR

Viva Dom Pedro the Second! At last a large political party in the capital grew tired of installing Regents and electing new ministers, and insistently demanded that the Emperor himself begin to reign, although legally he was still too young. According to the Constitution, an Emperor reached his majority at the age of eighteen, and Dom Pedro was only fifteen. But in spite of his youth, Dom Pedro the Second was declared constitutional Emperor and perpetual defender of Brazil. Viva Dom Pedro the Se

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THE UNITED STATES OF BRAZIL

THE UNITED STATES OF BRAZIL

Brazil , whose name originally meant the Land of Red Dye Wood, is to-day, the United States of Brazil with a Constitution like our own. It has a President, Vice-President, and House of Congress, and an army and navy. It has railroads, beautiful cities, many towns, and a world commerce. Brazil exports quantities of rubber, sugar, coffee, and other products. The milky juice of the caoutchouc or rubber, is gathered largely from the wild rubber-trees growing in the tropical forests far in the interi

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THE PILGRIM FATHERS

THE PILGRIM FATHERS

So they left that goodly and pleasant city which had been their resting place near twelve years. But they knew they were Pilgrims, and looked not much on these things; but lift up their eyes to the Heavens, their dearest country, and quieted their spirits. Governor William Bradford William Bradford was born about 1590 The Mayflower reached Cape Cod; Mayflower Compact signed, November 11, 1620 The Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock, probably December 20, 1620 William Bradford died, May 9, 1657...

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THE FATHER OF THE NEW ENGLAND COLONIES

THE FATHER OF THE NEW ENGLAND COLONIES

William Bradford’s birthday, we celebrate on the anniversary of the landing of the Pilgrims on Plymouth Rock. We do not know the exact date of his birth. He was just an ordinary boy living in a small English village. He was brought up by relatives, for his father and mother had died when he was a child. They had left him a small fortune, so he was not in want. When about twelve years old, he began to read the Bible. It interested him so much, that when older he attended the meetings of some neig

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THE SAVAGE NEW WORLD

THE SAVAGE NEW WORLD

It was November, 1620. The ocean swelled angrily. A cold wind was blowing, as day broke over the gray water. Sea-gulls swooped and wheeled around the good ship Mayflower , which, with tattered sails, was driving through the billows. For over two months she had been on her way from Plymouth, England, carrying the Pilgrims. And, now, while the dull day was breaking, suddenly a cry was heard:— “Land Ho!” The Pilgrims came crowding to the deck, fathers, mothers, children, men, and maid-servants. The

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WELCOME, ENGLISHMEN!

WELCOME, ENGLISHMEN!

“ Welcome! ” That cry—just one English word—sounded through the street of Plymouth, and startled the Pilgrims. They caught up their muskets and ran from the houses. A tall naked savage, his lank hair clinging to his shoulders, was stalking along the street, holding a bow and arrows. “Welcome!” he shouted. The Pilgrims returned his greeting. He was Samoset, Chief of Pemaquid, he told them. He had journeyed from very far off. He had learned English among the Englishmen who sometimes came to fish o

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LOST! LOST! A BOY!

LOST! LOST! A BOY!

There were children on the Mayflower —Oceanus Hopkins who was born at sea, Peregrine White who gave his first baby-cry soon after the Mayflower reached the New World, Francis Billington who almost blew up the Mayflower , while trying to make fireworks, and John Billington. John was a mischievous youngster, and so lively that the Pilgrim Fathers had to keep a stern eye upon him. But in spite of their watching, he got lost. For one day, soon after the Pilgrims were settled in Plymouth, he slipped

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THE RATTLESNAKE CHALLENGE

THE RATTLESNAKE CHALLENGE

It was just before Christmas, when a strange Brave came into Plymouth town, carrying a bundle of new arrows wrapped in a rattlesnake-skin. He asked for Tisquantum. When they told him that Tisquantum was away, he smiled and seemed glad. He laid down the skin, and turned to run out of the town. But Governor Bradford did not like his looks nor his queer gift, so ordered Captain Standish to seize him. The Captain laid hold of him, and locked him up for the night. At first the poor Indian shook so wi

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THE GREAT DROUGHT

THE GREAT DROUGHT

How the Pilgrims’ little farms did flourish! Rye, barley, maize, oats, beans, and peas grew and thrived; also parsnips, carrots, turnips, onions, melons, radishes, and beets. In the gardens, were fragrant herbs. Refreshing watercresses grew wild in the meadows; while fruit ripened on the trees, which the Pilgrims had found already growing in the land. But early during the third Summer, destruction threatened those little farms. There was a great drought. For many weeks, scarcely a drop of rain f

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SEEING BOSTON

SEEING BOSTON

It was before the War for Independence. A country boy in rough homespun clothes was walking along the streets of Boston. He was staring at the shop signs and windows. It was his first visit to the big city. He had never seen such interesting things before. The boy was Israel Putnam, the son of a farmer. A city boy, much bigger than Putnam, saw him wandering about staring curiously at everything. He thought that it would be safe to bully such a raw-looking boy. Stepping up to Putnam, he began to

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THE FIGHT WITH THE WOLF

THE FIGHT WITH THE WOLF

Israel Putnam grew older, married, and went to live in Connecticut. He had a stock farm. One winter, wolves began to kill his animals. There was a she-wolf, particularly fierce and ravenous, who had lost the toes of one foot. She attacked and devoured animals for miles around. During a single night Putnam lost seventy fine sheep and goats, besides having many lambs and kids badly torn. In the morning he found around the fold the tracks of the she-wolf’s toeless foot. Putnam and some of his neigh

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FROM PLOUGH TO CAMP

FROM PLOUGH TO CAMP

Israel Putnam did not stay on his farm. When the French and Indian War broke out, he enlisted. He served as major. He had many thrilling escapes from Indians. Once he was captured and tortured by savages, but was rescued by the French. After many years’ service, he resigned and went back to his farm. When the news of the Battle of Lexington reached him, he was ploughing. He left his plough in the field, and unyoked his team. Then, in his old farm-clothes, he sprang on a horse and galloped off to

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HE MADE WASHINGTON LAUGH

HE MADE WASHINGTON LAUGH

General Putnam once had the honour of making Washington laugh heartily. It was during the Siege of Boston. There was a traitor in camp. No one knew who he was. A strange woman—a spy—had delivered a letter, intended for him, to the wrong person. It was laid before Washington. It was in cipher. Washington ordered the woman to be arrested, but she was gone. Not long after, as Washington was standing in the upper window at Headquarters, he saw the oddest sight. It was stout “Old Put” himself, in all

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A GENEROUS FOE

A GENEROUS FOE

Israel Putnam was brave, bluff, and honest, and he was also compassionate. During the French and Indian War, the enemy’s wounded lay dying and neglected on one of the battle-fields. After the fierce fighting was over, Putnam himself hurried out onto the field, to tend the poor fellows. He gathered them together into one place. He gave them what food and drink he could get. He furnished each with a blanket. Under one badly wounded French sergeant, he placed three blankets, and laid him in a comfo

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PUTNAM NOT FORGOTTEN!

PUTNAM NOT FORGOTTEN!

When General Putnam, full of years and honours, retired from the Army, Washington wrote him a letter telling him that he was entitled to full pay till the close of the War, and afterward to half-pay. The letter was cordial and warm, and in it Washington said:— “Among the many worthy and meritorious officers, with whom I have had the happiness to be connected in service through the course of this War, and from whose cheerful assistance and advice I have received much support and confidence ... th

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ALEXANDER HAMILTON

ALEXANDER HAMILTON

He gave the whole powers of his mind to the contemplation of the weak and distracted condition of the Country.... He saw ... the absolute necessity of some closer bond of Union for the States.... He saw at last his hopes fulfilled; he saw the Constitution adopted, and the Government under it established and organized. The discerning eye of Washington immediately called him to the post which was far the most important in the administration of the new system. He was made Secretary of the Treasury.

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THE BOY OF THE HURRICANE

THE BOY OF THE HURRICANE

On the 11th of January, 1757, there was born on the little West Indian island of Nevis, a boy who was to become one of the foremost citizens of his adopted Country, and who was to have a large part in determining its Independence, its form of government, and in working out the details of its administration. This was Alexander Hamilton. His mother died when he was very young. His father was not so situated as properly to care for his son, so he was sent to the adjoining island of St. Croix, to li

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CALL COLONEL HAMILTON

CALL COLONEL HAMILTON

While young Hamilton was directing his battery during the passage of the Raritan, Washington, who was anxiously watching the passing of the troops, observed Hamilton’s skill and courage. He ordered one of his officers to find out the young man’s name, and tell him to report at Headquarters. Therefore, as soon as possible, young Hamilton hurried to Headquarters. As a result of this interview, Washington made him a member of his own staff. Hamilton became Washington’s private secretary. Many a nig

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A STRUGGLE

A STRUGGLE

After the Constitution of the United States had been framed by the Constitutional Convention, a severe political struggle took place to bring about its ratification by the States themselves. There were selfish political interests at work to prevent ratification. The influence of Alexander Hamilton, through his speeches and writings, so brilliant and convincing, did much to bring the People of the United States to understand the absolute necessity for a strong Federal Union and for a Constitution

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“HE KNOWS EVERYTHING”

“HE KNOWS EVERYTHING”

“ He knows everything,” said Robert Morris to President Washington. Robert Morris, during the War for Independence, had been Superintendent of Finance. When Congress needed funds, when Washington wished money with which to pay the soldiers, Robert Morris provided the means since his private commercial credit was great. Men had confidence in his business ability and honour. Once, when Congress was utterly without cash, Robert Morris supplied the Army with four or five thousand barrels of flour. A

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OUR COUNTRY Dr. Benjamin Franklin to General George Washington

OUR COUNTRY Dr. Benjamin Franklin to General George Washington

I must soon quit the scene, but you may live to see our Country flourish, as it will amazingly and rapidly after the War is over; like a field of young Indian Corn, which long fair weather and sunshine had enfeebled and discoloured, and which in that weak state, by a thundergust of violent wind, hail, and rain, seemed to be threatened with absolute destruction; yet the storm being past, it recovers fresh verdure, shoots up with double vigour, and delights the eye not of its owner only, but of ev

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THE WHISTLE Told by Franklin Himself

THE WHISTLE Told by Franklin Himself

When I was a child of seven years old, my friends on a holiday filled my pocket with coppers. I went directly to a shop where they sold toys for children, and being charmed with the sound of a whistle that I met by the way in the hands of another boy, I voluntarily offered and gave all my money for one. I then came home and went whistling all over the house, much pleased with my whistle , but disturbing all the family. My brothers and sisters and cousins, understanding the bargain I had made, to

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THE CANDLE-MAKER’S BOY

THE CANDLE-MAKER’S BOY

Benjamin Franklin , when a boy, used to work in his father’s shop at the Sign of the Blue Ball. His father was a tallow chandler, and made soap and candles. The boy got up early, cut wicks for candles, filled moulds with tallow, ran errands, and tended shop. Though he worked hard and honestly, his heart was not in his work. He wanted to go to sea. His elder brother, a sailor, had come home; and he told the most thrilling tales of his adventures. So Benjamin Franklin could not get the sea out of

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THE BOY OF THE PRINTING PRESS

THE BOY OF THE PRINTING PRESS

But Benjamin Franklin did not run away to sea. He became a printer’s boy. Because he liked books, he was apprenticed to his brother James, who had set up a printing press in Boston. To James’s house he went, taking with him his collection of precious volumes. There he worked hard by day, and read and studied at night. Recollecting his father’s favourite proverb, “Seest thou a man diligent in his calling, he shall stand before Kings,” Franklin saved his money, and worked early and late. When Jame

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THE THREE ROLLS

THE THREE ROLLS

Early in the morning of an October day, young Benjamin Franklin, seventeen years old and seeking his fortune, reached Philadelphia. He was tired and hungry, and had only a dollar of his little fund left. He stopped at a baker’s, and bought three big puffy rolls. He put a roll under each arm, and, munching the third, walked along Market Street. In the doorway of a house, stood a young girl. She saw the awkward, handsome boy, trudging past hungrily eating a big roll. She laughed to herself; she th

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STANDING BEFORE KINGS

STANDING BEFORE KINGS

When the American Colonies rose against the exactions of England, Benjamin Franklin was called upon to serve his Country as a diplomat in France and England. “My father,” wrote Franklin, “having among his instructions to me when a boy frequently repeated a proverb of Solomon, ‘Seest thou a man diligent in his calling, he shall stand before Kings; he shall not stand before mean men,’ “I from thence considered industry as a means of obtaining wealth and distinction, which encouraged me, though I d

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THE WONDERFUL KITE EXPERIMENT

THE WONDERFUL KITE EXPERIMENT

In Benjamin Franklin’s time, there were no electric trains, no telegraphs, telephones, radiographs, and radiophones. The driving and lighting power of electricity was not understood. People did not know that lightning was due to the presence of electricity in nature. Benjamin Franklin, who was keen and inquisitive, made scientific experiments with the Leyden jar and with simple machines which produced electricity by friction. He discovered that in certain ways, the action of electricity and ligh

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THE RISING SUN

THE RISING SUN

When the Federal Constitutional Convention met at Philadelphia, General Washington was unanimously made President of the Convention. He took the chair with diffidence. He assured the members that he was not used to such a situation, that he was embarrassed, and he hoped they would excuse his errors. And in what masterly fashion he conducted the convention, history shows. Behind his chair was painted a picture of the sun. After the debates were over and the Constitution was adopted, Benjamin Fran

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TO MY FRIEND From Franklin’s Will and Testament

TO MY FRIEND From Franklin’s Will and Testament

My fine crabtree walking-stick, with a gold head curiously wrought in the form of the Cap of Liberty, I give to my friend and the friend of Mankind, General Washington. If it were a Sceptre, he has merited it, and would become it. Benjamin Franklin With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the Nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his wi

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THE CABIN IN THE CLEARING

THE CABIN IN THE CLEARING

It was only a small cabin in a forest-clearing in the wilderness of Indiana. It stood on a knoll overlooking a piece of ground where corn and vegetables grew. In the woods around the cabin were bear, deer, and other wild creatures. The furniture was rude, brought from the East, or made of logs and hickory-sticks, while the bed was a sack of leaves. In the big fireplace, the logs cut from the forest, burned with a cheerful blaze. And there lived little Abe Lincoln, nine years old, with his father

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HOW HE LEARNED TO BE JUST

HOW HE LEARNED TO BE JUST

Let us have faith that Right makes Might, and in that Faith, let us to the end, dare to do our duty as we understand it. Abraham Lincoln , from his speech at Cooper Institute But it was not all work for Abe on the new farm in Indiana. He picked wild plums and pawpaws in the woods, and ate corn dodgers, fried bacon, roast wild turkey, and fish caught in the Indiana streams. He went to school when he could, which was not often, for in those days schools were few and far between, and teachers were

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OFF TO NEW ORLEANS

OFF TO NEW ORLEANS

Young Abe Lincoln went on several flatboat trips carrying produce down the Mississippi to New Orleans. One of these trips made a deep and lasting impression upon him. In New Orleans, he visited the slave-market. There negro men, women, and children were bought, sold, and flogged. Wives were torn from their husbands, children from their mothers, and auctioned off like cattle. The anguish of these scenes wrung Lincoln’s heartstrings. With quivering lips, he said, “If ever I get a chance to hit tha

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THE KINDNESS OF LINCOLN

THE KINDNESS OF LINCOLN

When Lincoln was a lawyer, one day he was going with a party of lawyers to attend court. They were riding, two by two, on horseback through a country lane, Lincoln in the rear. As they passed through a thicket of wild plum and crab-apple trees, his friends missed him. “Where is he?” they asked. Just then Lincoln’s companion came riding up. “Oh,” replied he, “when I saw him last, he had caught two young birds that the wind had blown out of their nest, and was hunting for the nest to put them back

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LINCOLN AND THE CHILDREN

LINCOLN AND THE CHILDREN

Abraham Lincoln loved children, and even strange children were drawn to him, as though they had known him all their lives. Here are a few of the stories told about Lincoln and his child-friends. Soon after Lincoln was elected President, he went to Chicago, where he was welcomed with shouts and cheers. Later, as he sat in a room talking with friends, a little boy was led in. At the sight of the President-elect, he took off his hat and swung it, shouting:— “Hurrah for Lincoln!” Lincoln rose, and c

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THE PRESIDENT AND THE BIBLE

THE PRESIDENT AND THE BIBLE

Lincoln’s love of truth, justice, and mercy, his detestation of everything ignoble, brutal, or mean, were taught him or strengthened in him from childhood through his reading of the Bible. The language of his speeches and writings was forceful and direct like the English of the Bible, and such a phrase as “A house divided against itself,” he took from the Bible. While President, he used to carry a New Testament with him; and he could quote whole passages. He used often to rise early in the morni

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WASHINGTON AND LINCOLN SPEAK A LINCOLN ORDER To the Army and Navy

WASHINGTON AND LINCOLN SPEAK A LINCOLN ORDER To the Army and Navy

The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy, desires and enjoins the orderly observance of the Sabbath by the officers and men in the military and naval service. The importance for man and beast of the prescribed weekly rest, the sacred rights of Christian soldiers and sailors, a becoming deference to the best sentiment of a Christian people, and a due regard for the Divine will, demand that Sunday labour in the Army and Navy be reduced to the measure of strict necessity. The discipli

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ADDRESS DELIVERED AT THE DEDICATION OF THE GETTYSBURG NATIONAL CEMETERY

ADDRESS DELIVERED AT THE DEDICATION OF THE GETTYSBURG NATIONAL CEMETERY

Fourscore and seven years ago our Fathers brought forth on this continent a new Nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that Nation, or any Nation, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field as a final resting-place for those who here gave their lives that that Nation might live. It is

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LINCOLN ON WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY

LINCOLN ON WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY

This is the one hundred and tenth anniversary of the birthday of Washington. We are met to celebrate this day. Washington is the mightiest name of earth—long since mightiest in the cause of Civil Liberty; still mightiest in moral reformation. On that name no eulogy is expected. It cannot be. To add brightness to the sun or glory to the name of Washington, is alike impossible. Let none attempt it. In solemn awe pronounce the name, and in its naked deathless splendour, leave it shining on. Abraham

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THE BOY IN THE VALLEY

THE BOY IN THE VALLEY

The boy George Washington was magnificently strong and tall, with firm muscles and powerful body. He could run, leap, wrestle, toss the bar, and pitch quoits. He rode fiery horses and hunted foxes. He was a silent, determined lad, truth-telling, with a wonderful grip on his temper. By the time that he was sixteen he was an excellent surveyor. And he was a proud and happy boy when, one spring day, he leaped on his horse, and, with a companion, rode away into the Wilderness on a real job of survey

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WASHINGTON’S MOTHER

WASHINGTON’S MOTHER

Molly Ball of Virginia, Molly Ball with hair like flax and cheeks like mayblossoms,—as she is described in the fragment of a quaint old letter,—married Augustine Washington of Virginia, and became the mother of George Washington. Washington was like his mother in qualities of character. He had her strength of will, love of truth, firm purpose, high sense of duty, dignity, and reverence. All these noble qualities were strengthened and made practical by her careful education and discipline. When h

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WASHINGTON’S WEDDING DAY

WASHINGTON’S WEDDING DAY

Washington plighted his troth with Martha Dandridge, the charming widow of Daniel Parke Custis. She was young, pretty, intelligent, and an heiress. It was a brilliant wedding party which assembled on a winter day in the little church near Mrs. Custis’s home. There were gathered the gay, free-thinking, high-living Governor, gorgeous in scarlet and gold; British officers, red-coated and gold-laced; and all the neighbouring gentry in their handsomest clothes. The bride was attired in silk and satin

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WASHINGTON AND THE CHILDREN

WASHINGTON AND THE CHILDREN

There were two joyous little people who went to live with the bride in her new home at Mount Vernon. They were her two children, Jack Custis, six years old, and his sister Patsy, just four years old. Washington gave them little ponies to ride. He bought fashionably dressed baby dolls for Patsy, silver shoe and knee buckles for Jack, and for both of them toys, gingerbread-figures, sugar-images, and little books with coloured pictures in them. He gave them each a Bible bound in turkey leather with

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THE LITTLE GIRL AND THE RED COATS

THE LITTLE GIRL AND THE RED COATS

When Washington with the Army entered Boston after the British had evacuated the city, he made the best tavern in town his Headquarters. It had been the British Headquarters. The tavern-keeper’s little girl was running about very much interested in all that was going on. Washington called her to him, and holding her on his knee, asked:— “Now that you have seen the soldiers on both sides, which do you like best?” The little girl hesitated, but like the great Washington himself, she could not tell

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NELLIE AND LITTLE WASHINGTON

NELLIE AND LITTLE WASHINGTON

George Washington loved children, and, as he had none of his own, he adopted two of his wife’s grandchildren, Nellie Custis and George Washington Parke Custis. The little boy was known as “Washington.” Nellie was a beautiful child with smiling black eyes and thick curly brown hair; while her brother was of very light complexion. They had good times together at Mount Vernon. There was a delightfully fearsome pack of hounds in the kennel; French dogs, the gift of Lafayette, “fierce, big-mouthed, s

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SEEING THE PRESIDENT

SEEING THE PRESIDENT

Sometimes , when President Washington went on a journey in his state-coach, he wanted to travel quietly, without attracting people’s attention. So he charged his courier, who rode on ahead, to make all necessary arrangements at inns, but to tell no one but the landlords, that the President was coming. Often, however, the news leaked out, and was flashed throughout the countryside. Trumpets were blown, as the veterans of the War for Independence gathered to welcome their Chief. Village cannon roa

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NELSON THE HERO

NELSON THE HERO

There was one old horse at Mount Vernon, after the War for Independence, who was a hero. He was never ridden. He was cared for kindly. He grazed in a pleasant paddock. That was Nelson, Washington’s favourite and splendid charger, which he had ridden on the day of the surrender at Yorktown. He was a light sorrel, with white face and legs. Now that he was old, he was petted and cared for. Whenever Washington made the rounds of his kennels and stables, he stopped at the paddock. Then the old war-ho

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CARING FOR THE GUEST Told by the Guest Himself

CARING FOR THE GUEST Told by the Guest Himself

I had feasted my imagination, for several days, on the near prospect of a visit to Mount Vernon, the seat of Washington. No pilgrim ever approached Mecca with deeper enthusiasm. The first evening I spent under the wing of his hospitality, we sat a full hour at table, by ourselves, without the least interruption after the family had retired. I was extremely oppressed with a severe cold and excessive coughing, contracted from the exposure of a harsh winter journey. He pressed me to use some remedi

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THOUGHTFUL OF OTHERS

THOUGHTFUL OF OTHERS

Once , when Washington was stopping for refreshment at a house in Jersey, some one told him that a wounded officer was there, who could not bear the slightest sound. During the meal, Washington spoke in an undertone, and was careful to make no noise. After he had left the table, however, his officers began to talk in loud voices. Instantly, Washington softly opened the dining-room door, entered on tip-toe, took a book from the mantelpiece, and stole out of the room without uttering a word. His o

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THE CINCINNATUS OF THE WEST

THE CINCINNATUS OF THE WEST

This little verse is from “Darby’s Return,” a play that President Washington went to see. The moment he entered the theatre the whole audience rose to its feet and cheered. And when “Darby” said these lines, the audience stared hard at Washington to see how he would take them. He looked horribly embarrassed. But when “Darby” quickly added that he had not seen the “man” at all at all because he was so plainly dressed that he passed by unnoticed, Washington burst into a hearty laugh. In the ancien

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BROTHER JONATHAN

BROTHER JONATHAN

I do hereby earnestly recommend it to all ... to meet together for social prayer to Almighty God ... that He would ... preserve our precious Rights and Liberties ... and make us a People of his praise, and blessed of the Lord, as long as the sun and the moon shall endure. Jonathan Trumbull , to the People of Connecticut, June 18, 1776 Patriotic and plucky was Connecticut, the State of the Charter Oak. It had been a liberty-loving Colony from the days when its first settlers, with their wives, ch

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THE BLOODY FOOTPRINTS

THE BLOODY FOOTPRINTS

It was the terrible winter of 1777. The snow lay thick on the ground, and the cold was piercing. Through the snow, a detachment of Patriot troops was wearily plodding toward winter-quarters at Valley Forge. Half-naked, hungry, and numb with cold, they pushed on. Presently Washington rode slowly up after them. He was eying the snow intently through which they had marched. There was something on its frozen surface, something red that he had tracked for many miles. Saluting the commanding officer,

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AN APPEAL TO GOD

AN APPEAL TO GOD

On a cold wintry journey to Valley Forge, Mrs. Washington rode behind her husband on a pillion. He was on his powerful bay charger, and accompanied by a single aide-de-camp. On his arrival at Valley Forge, Washington placed her in the small but comfortable house of Isaac Potts, a Quaker preacher. So in all the trials of that Winter at Valley Forge, Washington had the most earnest sympathies, cheerful spirit, and willing hands of his loving wife to sustain him and share in his cares. She provided

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FRIEND GREENE

FRIEND GREENE

It was at the Siege of Boston. The troops of the Colonies were raw and uncouth. They were camping separately. Washington was inspecting their camps for the first time. He saw that their shelters were made of anything the soldiers could lay hands on, turf, bricks, sail-cloth, boards, or brushwood. Each soldier seemed to live and do as he pleased. But when Washington reached the camp of the Rhode Island troops, he perceived neat tents pitched, soldiers well drilled and equipped, and under perfect

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LIGHT HORSE HARRY

LIGHT HORSE HARRY

The American Congress to Henry Lee, Colonel of Cavalry :— “ Notwithstanding rivers and intrenchments, he with a small band ered the foe by warlike skill and prowess, and firmly bound by his humanity, those who had been conquered by his arms. ” In memory of the conflict at Paulus’s Hook, nineteenth of August, 1779 The most dashing and romantic young soldier of the Continental Army, was Light Horse Harry. His real name was Henry Lee. He was a small, alert, young man, mischievous sometimes, but alw

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CAPTAIN MOLLY

CAPTAIN MOLLY

Proudly floats the starry banner; Monmouth’s glorious field is won; And in triumph Irish Molly stands beside her smoking gun. Moll Pitcher , twenty-two years old, was dubbed Captain at the Battle of Monmouth, and very proud she was of the title. Her real name was Molly Hays. She carried drinking-water on the battle-field, to refresh the soldiers; so they nicknamed her Moll Pitcher. At Monmouth, her husband, a Patriot, belonged to Proctor’s artillery. Moll was with him on the field. Six men, one

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THE SOLDIER BARON

THE SOLDIER BARON

The good Baron found time to prepare a new code of discipline and tactics ... and this excellent manual held its place, long after the death of its author, as the Blue Book of our Army. John Fiske While the ragged Patriot Army with Washington starved, froze, and suffered at Valley Forge, there was speeding down from Boston on a fast saddle-horse, a man who was to help them win the war. His keen hazel eyes looked pleasantly out from under bushy brows. His mouth smiled with good cheer; but he held

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FATHER THADDEUS

FATHER THADDEUS

“ What do you wish to do?” said Washington. The young Polish officer with a rugged face, held himself erect. “I come,” answered he, “to fight as a volunteer for American Independence.” “What can you do?” asked Washington. “Try me!” said the young Pole, his dark eyes flashing pleasantly. So Washington tried him. He was Thaddeus Kosciuszko, born in Lithuania, and a Patriot of unhappy Poland. Poor Poland! Dismembered, patriotic Poland! Again and again she had been betrayed, and divided by her greed

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THE LITTLE FRIEND IN FRONT STREET

THE LITTLE FRIEND IN FRONT STREET

He entitled himself to the gratitude of the entire Country. Ex-President William H. Taft He was only a little man in his office on Front Street, Philadelphia. Only a little man—but how great! Without his help our War for Independence might have been lost. He helped to save the Country not with a sword, but by giving all the means that he had and expecting nothing in return. This little man—his “little friend in Front Street,” as James Madison called him—was Haym Salomon, a Polish Jew and a Patri

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FAREWELL! MY GENERAL! FAREWELL! December 4, 1783

FAREWELL! MY GENERAL! FAREWELL! December 4, 1783

The War for Independence was over. Thursday the 4th of December was fixed upon for the final leave-taking of Washington with his officers. This was the most trying event in his whole career, and he summoned all his self-command to meet it with composure. Knox and Greene, and Hamilton and Steuben, and others assembled in Fraunces Tavern, [4] and waited with fast-beating hearts the arrival of their Chief. Not a sound broke the silence as he entered, save the clatter of scabbards as the whole group

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FROM “WASHINGTON’S LEGACY” OR HIS LETTER TO THE GOVERNORS OF ALL THE STATES

FROM “WASHINGTON’S LEGACY” OR HIS LETTER TO THE GOVERNORS OF ALL THE STATES

I now make it my earnest prayer that God would have you, and the State over which you preside, in His holy protection; that He would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their Fellow-citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the field;—and finally that He would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do jus

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A KING OF MEN

A KING OF MEN

Hand in hand with ... rare soundness of judgment there went a completeness of moral self-control which was all the more impressive inasmuch as Washington’s was by no means a tame or commonplace nature, such as ordinary power of will would suffice to guide. He was a man of intense and fiery passions. His anger when once aroused had in it something so terrible, that strong men were cowed by it like frightened children. This prodigious animal nature was habitually curbed by a will of iron and held

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WHEN WASHINGTON DIED

WHEN WASHINGTON DIED

Crape enshrouded the Standards of France, and the Flags upon the victorious ships of England fell fluttering to half-mast at the tidings of his death. Chief Justice Fuller Let his countrymen consecrate the memory of the heroic General, the patriotic Statesman, and the virtuous sage. Let them teach their children never to forget that the fruits of his labours and his example, are their inheritance . The Senate of the United States, 1799 The following stories about Washington, and the War for Inde

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THE BOY SOLDIER

THE BOY SOLDIER

This boy soldier, who became a great general and American Patriot, was born in the Indian village of Yapeyu, in the district of Misiones, which is now a part of Argentina. Misiones is a land of thousands of bright butterflies and brilliant flowers, of plantations and wide forests. In it are abandoned groves of wild oranges and lemons, once belonging to the Jesuit Missions, that gave the name of Misiones to the region. Though he was born among Indians, the boy soldier was not an Indian. He was of

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THE PATRIOT WHO KEPT FAITH

THE PATRIOT WHO KEPT FAITH

In romantic Spain, there was everything to entice young San Martin to forget his native land so far away, and the little Indian village on the Uruguay. The crimson and gold banners of Spain waved over victorious battle-fields, the drums beat triumphantly, the trumpets sounded to the charge. There was glamour of combat with Moors and other brave enemies. There were romances of knights and ladies, and legends of Aragon, Castile, and the Alhambra. There were serenades, fandangos , and feasts. While

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WHEN SAN MARTIN CAME

WHEN SAN MARTIN CAME

To-day , the Republic of Argentina is an immense rich land. It stretches from the Atlantic Coast westward nearly to the Pacific. Its broad pampas , or plains, roll almost from the very doors of the beautiful city of Buenos Aires to the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The mighty frozen peaks of the Andes form a wall between the two sister Republics, Argentina and Chile. Though the breadth of Argentina is so great, its length is even more tremendous. North to South, the Republic stretches from t

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ARGENTINA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY July 9, 1816

ARGENTINA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY July 9, 1816

The Birthday of the Argentine Republic was really May 25, 1810, before San Martin came to Argentina. For on that day a group of patriotic citizens of Buenos Aires braved the anger of Spain, set up a People’s Government, and convened the first Colonial Assembly in Argentina. But on July 9, 1816, while San Martin’s soldiers were harassing the Spaniards, there assembled at the city of Tucuman, delegates from a number of the Provinces, who declared the “Independence of the United Provinces of the Ri

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A GREAT IDEA

A GREAT IDEA

Gold , jewels, spices, and costly woods, in fact much of the stupendous wealth of Spanish America, flowed yearly into Lima, “the City of the Kings” in Peru, on the Pacific, the city founded by Pizarro the gold-hunter. Triumphantly, Lima lifted the picturesque towers and domes of her palaces, convents, monasteries, and religious schools, and of her ancient cathedral, for Lima ruled not only the Pacific coast of Spanish America, but the whole of Spanish America as well. She was the centre of Spain

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THE MIGHTY ANDES

THE MIGHTY ANDES

“What spoils my sleep, is not the strength of the enemy, but how to pass those immense mountains,” said San Martin, as from Mendoza he gazed upon the snow-clad summits of the mighty Andes, whose giant wall separated the wide plains of Argentina from the sunny smiling valleys of Chile on the Pacific. Terrible seemed the Andes stretching from North to South like an impassable barrier. Near Mendoza, the barren foothills resembled waves of a petrified sea. Above them soared the central lofty mountai

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THE REAL SAN MARTIN

THE REAL SAN MARTIN

And what was General San Martin like? Why did the good folk of Mendoza love him and hasten to do all that he asked? Why did his troops cheerfully submit to terrible privations, and willingly plunge into danger and death if San Martin was with them? Why, to-day, do the boys and girls of Argentina wish to be like their great and beloved hero—San Martin? First, because San Martin never thought of himself. The folk of Mendoza offered him a handsome house to live in. He quietly refused it. He gave up

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THE FIGHTING ENGINEER OF THE ANDES

THE FIGHTING ENGINEER OF THE ANDES

Among the Patriots of Mendoza was a begging Friar, named Luis Beltran. He had fought in Chile against the Spaniards. He had returned across the Andes to Mendoza with a kit of tools on his back. He was a clever fellow, a mathematician, a chemist, an artilleryman, a maker of watches and fireworks, a carpenter, an architect, a blacksmith, a draughtsman, a cobbler, and a physician. He was strong and rugged. San Martin made him chaplain. But on learning of his extraordinary gifts, he appointed him to

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THE HANNIBAL OF THE ANDES

THE HANNIBAL OF THE ANDES

Everything was ready. Friar Beltran’s forges, blazing night and day, had turned out thirty thousand horseshoes. His arsenal had produced bullets by the hundreds of thousands. Friar Beltran’s carriages for artillery, specially designed for mountain-passes, stood waiting. The guns themselves were to be carried on the backs of mules. Slings had been prepared to hoist the mules over dangerous places; also sleds of rawhide in which the guns might be hauled up inclines too steep for heavily laden mule

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NOT FOR HIMSELF

NOT FOR HIMSELF

Honours were showered on San Martin after the battle of Chacabuco. News of his successful crossing of the Andes and of his victory, reached Buenos Aires. All day long shouts sounded through the streets. Cannon roared from the fort and from the squadron in the roadstead. San Martin’s portrait was hung where all could see it, draped in flags captured from the enemy. The Argentine Government decreed a sword and badge for San Martin, and struck medals for his soldiers. They voted a pension of six hu

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COCHRANE, EL DIABLO

COCHRANE, EL DIABLO

“ On to Lima! On to Lima!” was now the cry of the Argentine and Chilean soldiers. “Let us drive out the Spaniards! Let us expel them from Spanish America for ever!” “On to Lima by sea,” was San Martin’s decision. Meanwhile, O’Higgins was busy equipping a fleet to carry the troops to Peru. There was, at that time, in England a dauntless, dashing naval-officer, Lord Thomas Cochrane, who was famous for his extraordinary courage and adventures. He gladly accepted the invitation of San Martin and O’H

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OUR BROTHERS, YE SHALL BE FREE!

OUR BROTHERS, YE SHALL BE FREE!

“ The Peruvians are our brothers,” proclaimed San Martin to his soldiers. “Remember that you are come not to conquer but to liberate a People!” he proclaimed as soon as the Liberating Army was landed in Peru. For Lord Cochrane had brought them safely thither aboard the Chilean fleet. Then to the Peruvians, San Martin sent broadcast a proclamation:— You shall be free and independent. You shall form your government and your laws according to the spontaneous wish of your own representatives. The so

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THE FALL OF THE CITY OF THE KINGS

THE FALL OF THE CITY OF THE KINGS

Lima , “the City of the Kings,” stands not far from the sea on a plain near the foot of the Cordilleras. When San Martin landed in Peru, Lima the proud, the rich, was the seat of the Spanish Viceroy’s Court with all its pomp and vices. She was shut in by walls above which rose her turrets and domes. Many of her people were slaves, Indians, or freedmen; the rest were haughty Spanish grandees and rich royalists. Lima was the civil, and military, despot of all Spanish America. San Martin had now bu

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SAN MARTIN THE CONQUEROR

SAN MARTIN THE CONQUEROR

A Retreat The people watched eagerly to see San Martin enter in state as a conquering general should. The day passed, and he did not come. When it began to grow dark, he rode in through the gate attended by a single aide-de-camp. And he would not have come then, if he could have helped it. It was his plan to slip unobserved into the city early in the morning before people were up. But the reason why he had to enter at evening, was this:— He was tired, and he had just settled down for the night i

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LIMA’S GREATEST DAY July 28, 1821, Peru’s Independence Day

LIMA’S GREATEST DAY July 28, 1821, Peru’s Independence Day

It was Lima’s greatest day. It was the 28th of July. It was her Independence Day. Flowers and perfumes were being showered down from palace-windows and balconies. They fell on the heads of San Martin and many officers, clergy, and officials who were marching through cheering crowds. They marched to the great square, and mounted a platform. The troops were drawn up in the square. The Declaration of Independence of Peru was read aloud. Then San Martin, standing on the platform, unfurled the new fl

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HAIL! NEIGHBOUR REPUBLICS!

HAIL! NEIGHBOUR REPUBLICS!

San Martin continued to wage his successful campaign against the Spaniards. Now, let us leave him and Peru for a moment. Let us turn to the United States and see what we were doing about all this. We recognized our sister Republics for the first time on March 8, 1822. On that day President Monroe sent a special message to Congress saying, “the Provinces belonging to this hemisphere are our neighbours.” He recommended that Congress should recognize as independent Nations, Colombia, Chile, Peru, M

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AMERICA FOR THE AMERICANS

AMERICA FOR THE AMERICANS

So at last, the Spanish-American Republics were recognized. Their Freedom was practically won. But the Kings of Continental Europe felt their thrones tottering and their crowns loosened. After the wars of Napoleon, the whole of Europe was in political ferment. So it always happens after long wars. The Peoples of Continental Europe, who for generations had been down-trodden by Kings and Emperors, had learned from the United States and France, of such things as Liberty, Constitutions, and the righ

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WHAT ONE AMERICAN DID October 9, 1820

WHAT ONE AMERICAN DID October 9, 1820

Now , to return to South America and its struggle: “That was bravely and cleverly done!” exclaimed Joseph Villamil. Villamil was an American, a citizen of the United States, who had cast in his lot with the Spanish-American Patriots. At his house in Guayaquil (a city now a part of Ecuador) the local Patriots met to discuss plans. The Province and city of Guayaquil lay on the northern border of Peru. They were still under Spanish rule. They were garrisoned by 1500 Spanish soldiers. The Patriots d

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THE AMAZING MEETING

THE AMAZING MEETING

This amazing meeting at Guayaquil, was like the dramatic climax of an exciting story. There was a mystery in it. It happened a few months after the freeing of Guayaquil. The people of the city, dressed in their gayest clothes, were crowding along the streets, and craning their necks to watch for a procession. Triumphal arches spanned the streets. On each arch was inscribed:—...

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BOLIVAR!

BOLIVAR!

And while the people watched eagerly, lo, the new white and blue flag of independent Guayaquil was hauled down from the gunboats on the river, and in its place were run up the red, yellow, and blue colours of the great new Republic of Colombia, which had just been formed to the North of Guayaquil. Then there was a sudden burst of military music, and under the triumphal arches marched a procession of officers in brilliant uniforms and soldiers with bayonets. And astride his war-horse, cocked hat

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WHAT HAPPENED AFTERWARD

WHAT HAPPENED AFTERWARD

Then came the results of that Amazing Meeting. San Martin returned to Peru, and announced that Bolivar was coming with his Army to aid the Country. He then resigned his command, refusing all the honours heaped upon him by the grateful Peruvian Government. But, he said, that if the Republic of Peru were ever in danger, he would glory in joining as a citizen in her defense. Then, to the sorrowing Peruvian People, he issued a farewell address, assuring them, that since their Independence was secure

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THE MYSTERY SOLVED

THE MYSTERY SOLVED

What was the mystery, that had made San Martin at the height of his success, bow his head in silence and go into voluntary exile? His enemies reviled him. Even some of his friends accused him of deserting his post in time of need. But he neither complained nor explained. A great act of self-abnegation may not be hidden forever. Years passed by, then San Martin’s noble purpose came to light. At that Amazing Meeting, after he and Bolivar had exchanged opposing views as to the best form of governme

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MISCHIEVOUS ANDY

MISCHIEVOUS ANDY

“ Set the case! You are Shauney Kerr’s mare, and me Billy Buck. And I should mount you, and you should kick, fall, fling, and break your neck, should I be to blame for that?” Imagine this gibberish, roared out by a sandy-haired boy, as he came leaping from the door of a log-schoolhouse, ready to defy all the other boys to a race, a wrestle, or a jumping match, while he playfully laid sprawling as many of his friends as he could trip unawares. There you have Andy Jackson! Andy, tall, lank, red-he

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READING THE DECLARATION

READING THE DECLARATION

Andy was nine years old when the Declaration of Independence was signed at Philadelphia. In August, some one brought a Philadelphia newspaper to the Waxhaws. It contained a portion of the Declaration. A crowd of Waxhaw Patriots gathered in front of the country store owned by Andy’s Uncle Crawford. They were eager to hear the Declaration read aloud. Andy was chosen to read it. He did so proudly in a shrill, penetrating voice. He read the whole thing through without once stopping to spell out the

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OUT AGAINST TARLETON

OUT AGAINST TARLETON

Andrew Jackson was little more than thirteen, when the British Tarleton with his dragoons, thundered along the red roads of the Waxhaws, and dyed them a deeper red with the blood of the surprised Patriot Militia. For Tarleton fell upon the Waxhaws settlement, and killed one hundred and thirteen of the Militia, and wounded a hundred and fifty more. The wounded men were abandoned to the care of the settlers, and quartered in the cabins, and in the old log Waxhaw meeting-house, which was turned int

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AN ORPHAN OF THE REVOLUTION

AN ORPHAN OF THE REVOLUTION

Andrew Jackson was no sooner out of danger, than his courageous mother resolved to go to Charleston, a distance of nearly two hundred miles, and do what she could for the comfort of the prisoners confined on the reeking, disease-infested prison-ships. Among the many captives on the ships, suffering hunger, sickness, and neglect, were Mrs. Jackson’s own nephews and some of her Waxhaw neighbours. She hoped to obtain their release, as she had that of Andy and Robert. She arrived at Charleston, and

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THE HOOTING IN THE WILDERNESS

THE HOOTING IN THE WILDERNESS

It was night in the Tennessee Wilderness. A train of settlers from the Carolinas, with four-wheeled ox-carts and pack-horses, and attended by an armed guard, was winding its way along the trail through the forest toward the frontier-town of Nashville. They had marched thirty-six hours, a night and two days, without stopping to rest. They were keeping a vigilant outlook for savages. At length, they reached what they thought was a safe camping-ground. The tired travellers hastened to encamp. Their

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FORT MIMS

FORT MIMS

The War of 1812 was made terrible by an uprising of the Indians. The Creeks, incited and armed by British officers, attacked Fort Mims in Alabama, and, with unspeakable atrocities, massacred over five hundred helpless men, women, and children. The howling savages at their bloody work made so hideous a scene, that even their Chief, a half-breed Indian named Weatherford, was filled with horror. He tried to protect the women and children. But his savage followers broke all restraint, and nothing co

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DAVY CROCKETT “Go ahead!” Davy Crockett’s motto

DAVY CROCKETT “Go ahead!” Davy Crockett’s motto

When Andrew Jackson called for volunteers to punish the Creeks, Davy Crockett, the famous Tennessee bear-hunter, came hurrying to enlist. He was a backwoodsman, born and reared in a log cabin in the Wilderness. Armed with his long rifle and hunting-knife, dressed in a hunting-shirt and fox-skin cap with the tail hanging down behind, he was a picturesque figure. He was merry as well as fearless, and kept the soldiers in a constant roar of laughter with his jokes and funny stories. He was kind-hea

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CHIEF WEATHERFORD

CHIEF WEATHERFORD

Andrew Jackson carried forward his Indian campaign with crushing effect. Blow after blow fell upon the doomed Creeks, and at the Battle of the Horseshoe, he annihilated their power for ever. The Creeks were conquered; but their Chief, Weatherford, was still at large. Andrew Jackson gave orders for his pursuit and capture. He wished to punish him for his part in the massacre at Fort Mims. The Creek force under Weatherford had melted away. The warriors who were left after the battle, had taken fli

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SAM HOUSTON

SAM HOUSTON

Years before the fall of the Alamo, during the Creek War, at the Battle of the Horseshoe, Andrew Jackson had just given the order for a part of his troops to charge the Indian breastwork. The troops rushed forward with loud shouts. The first in that rush was a young Lieutenant, Sam Houston. [5] As he led the way across the breastwork, a barbed arrow struck deep into his thigh. He tried to pull it out, but could not. He called to an officer, and asked him to draw it out. The officer tugged at its

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WHY JACKSON WAS NAMED OLD HICKORY

WHY JACKSON WAS NAMED OLD HICKORY

When Andrew Jackson, with his Tennessee riflemen, was camping at Natchez waiting for orders to move on to New Orleans, he received a despatch from the War Department. It ordered him to dismiss his men at once. Jackson’s indignation and rage knew no bounds. Dismiss them without pay, without means of transportation, without provision for the sick! Never! He himself would march them home again through the savage Wilderness, at his own expense! Such was his determination. And when his little Army se

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THE COTTON-BALES

THE COTTON-BALES

We have all heard tell that Andrew Jackson and his riflemen fought the Battle of New Orleans from behind cotton-bales. This is a mistake. Yet it is true that Old Hickory did commandeer a whole cargo of cotton-bales, and with them built a bastion in front of his guns. But at the very first bombardment, the balls from the British batteries knocked the bales in all directions, while wads from the American guns and spurting flames from the muzzles of the rifles set some of the bales afire. They fell

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AFTER THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS

AFTER THE BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS

The British troops had retreated before the savage crackling of the Tennessee and Kentucky rifles. The American artillery, which had continued to play upon the British batteries, ceased their fire for the guns to cool and the dense smoke to roll away. The whole American Army crowded in triumph to the parapet, and looked over into the field. What a scene was gradually disclosed to them! The plain was covered and heaped with the British dead and wounded. The American soldiers, to their credit be i

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THE FOURTH OF JULY 1826

THE FOURTH OF JULY 1826

Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia, April 13, 1743 Framed the Declaration of Independence, 1776 Was elected Governor of Virginia, 1779 Appointed Secretary of State in Washington’s Cabinet, 1789 Elected third President of the United States, 1800 He died on the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Fourth of July, 1826 He was called the Sage of Monticello. Monticello was the name of his fine country estate....

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THE BOY OWNER OF SHADWELL FARM

THE BOY OWNER OF SHADWELL FARM

Thomas Jefferson was a boy of seventeen, tall, raw-boned, freckled, and sandy-haired. He came to Williamsburg from the far west of Virginia, to enter the College of William and Mary. With his large feet and hands, his thick wrists, and prominent cheek bones and chin, he could not have been accounted handsome or graceful. He is described, however, as a fresh, bright, healthy-looking youth, as straight as a gun-barrel, sinewy and strong, with that alertness of movement which comes of early familia

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A CHRISTMAS GUEST

A CHRISTMAS GUEST

Shadwell Farm was a good farm to grow up on. Thomas Jefferson and his noisy crowd of schoolfellows hunted on a mountain near by, which abounded in deer, turkeys, foxes, and other game. Jefferson was a keen hunter, eager for a fox, swift of foot and sound of wind, coming in fresh and alert after a long day’s clambering hunt. He studied hard, for he liked books as much as fox-hunting. Soon he began to be impatient to enter college. Then, too, he had never seen a town nor even a village of twenty h

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THE AUTHOR OF THE DECLARATION

THE AUTHOR OF THE DECLARATION

The English settlers of Virginia, brought with them English rights and liberties. The settlers and their descendants were “forever to enjoy all liberties, franchises, and immunities enjoyed by Englishmen in England.” They received from England the right to make their own laws, if not contrary to the laws of England. It was a Governor of Virginia who summoned the first representative Assembly that ever met in America, the first American Colonial Legislature. This happened about a year before the

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PROCLAIM LIBERTY July 4, 1776

PROCLAIM LIBERTY July 4, 1776

The Declaration was signed! America was free! Joyously the great bell in the steeple of the State House at Philadelphia, swung its iron tongue and pealed forth the glad news, proclaiming Liberty throughout all the land. The tidings spread from city to city, from village to village, from farm to farm. There was shouting, rejoicing, bonfires, and thanksgiving. Copies of the Declaration were sent to all the States. Washington had it proclaimed at the head of his troops; while far away in the Waxhaw

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ONLY A REPRIEVE

ONLY A REPRIEVE

Fondly do we hope,—fervently do we pray,—that this mighty scourge of War may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman’s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn by the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said, “The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.” Abraham Lincoln There were two statemen

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ON THE FOURTH OF JULY 1826

ON THE FOURTH OF JULY 1826

It was the Fourth of July, the fiftieth anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence. In his home at Monticello, Thomas Jefferson had closed his eyes for ever on the Fourth of July, the fiftieth anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence. I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me Liberty or give me Death! Patrick Henry...

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TO THE READER

TO THE READER

Whether (Independence) will prove a blessing or a curse will depend upon the use our People make of the blessings which a gracious God hath bestowed on us. If they are wise, they will be great and happy. If they are of a contrary character, they will be miserable. Righteoutness alone can exalt them at a Nation. Reader!—whoever thou art, remember this; and in thy sphere practice virtue thyself, and encourage it in others. Patrick Henry Patrick Henry was born in Virginia, May 29, 1736 He was elect

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THE ORATOR OF THE WAR FOR INDEPENDENCE

THE ORATOR OF THE WAR FOR INDEPENDENCE

In 1765, there was an important meeting of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, as the lawmaking body of that Colony was called. They had come together to debate upon a great question, that of the Stamp Act passed by the British Parliament for the taxation of the Colonies. Most of the members were opposed to it, but they were timid and doubtful, and dreadfully afraid of saying or doing something that might offend the King. They talked all round the subject, but were as afraid to come close to it

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FACING DANGER

FACING DANGER

It was the last day of August, 1774. The Potomac was flowing lazily past Mount Vernon. The door of the large mansion on the high river-bank stood open. Before it were three horses saddled and bridled. Three men came out of the house. One was George Washington, large, handsome, resolute, dressed for a long journey. With him, was a tall, angular, raw-boned man, slightly stooping, carelessly dressed, whose dark, deep-set eyes flashed with peculiar brilliance. The third man was equally striking in a

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THE SPANISH GALLEONS

THE SPANISH GALLEONS

Have you ever read the voyages and adventures of the handsome young Amyas Leigh, who sailed the Spanish Main with the Seawolf, Sir Francis Drake? Have you read of Ayacanora the Indian Princess with the blowgun, of Salvation Yeo, of the lost Rose of Devon, of the old Mono of Panama, and how Amyas and his fellows seized a gold pack-train and captured a Spanish Treasure-Galleon? One of the most thrilling tales of adventure, of Spanish Gold and Spanish Galleons, is “Westward Ho!” the story of Amyas

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THE ROMANCE OF MIRANDA

THE ROMANCE OF MIRANDA

This is the romance of Francisco de Miranda of Venezuela, the Flaming Son of Liberty, the Knight-Errant of Freedom, who made Spain tremble. Romance was in his blood, for Alvaro, his great Spanish ancestor, had won the family coat-of-arms, by rescuing five Christian maidens from pagan Moors. And Miranda’s father, an adventurous, bold Spaniard, had crossed the Atlantic in those dangerous days of pirates to seek his fortune in Venezuela. So the boy, who was to make Spain tremble, was born in Venezu

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THE MYSTERY SHIP

THE MYSTERY SHIP

It was early in the year 1806. Near a wharf in Staten Island rode the good ship Leander tugging at her anchor. A crowd of young men, some of them from New York and Long Island, came hurrying onto the wharf. Many were college men, others were working boys. Some were dressed in fashionable clothes; while others, who shouldered their way huskily through the crowd, wore plain homespun and carried kits of tools or bundles of clothes. Among these young men was William Steuben Smith, the grandson of Jo

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THE END OF THE MYSTERY SHIP

THE END OF THE MYSTERY SHIP

And what became of the young Americans who had been persuaded to ship in the Leander ? Two English schooners, the Bacchus and the Bee , had joined the Leander at one of the West Indies. As the latter was overcrowded, some of the Americans were transferred to the schooners. Then, while this small fleet of three small vessels was approaching Venezuela, two Spanish revenue-cutters swooped down upon them. The Leander engaged the enemy bravely, firing her guns; but the Bacchus and Bee tried to escape

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THE GREAT AND GLORIOUS FIFTH

THE GREAT AND GLORIOUS FIFTH

Meanwhile , a great change was taking place. In Europe, Napoleon had forced the King of Spain to abdicate. In Venezuela the people felt no longer bound in loyalty to the Spanish Crown. Miranda’s teachings had made an impression. The seeds of Patriotism which he had sown were taking root. The Patriot Party in Venezuela grew strong. Young Simon Bolivar, a fiery Patriot, was sent on a mission to England. While there, he sought out Miranda. He invited him to return to Venezuela and help the Patriot

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A TERRIBLE THING

A TERRIBLE THING

But the struggle against Spain was only just begun. Her armies were large. Her General, Monteverde, was treacherous, crafty, and cruel. Much of Venezuela yet groaned beneath the heel of Spain. Miranda and his soldiers fought valiantly, now defeated, now victorious. It began to seem as though the Patriot cause might triumph in the end. Then a terrible thing happened. An earthquake—frightful, tremendous—shook the land. The earth heaved like the sea in all directions. Churches, houses, and barracks

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END OF THE ROMANCE

END OF THE ROMANCE

“ Venezuela is wounded in the heart!” exclaimed Miranda in a deep voice as he read the despatch telling of the loss of Puerto Cabello. It was Simon Bolivar, the fiery, impetuous, young Patriot, who had lost this important fortress and city to Monteverde. He was in despair, Bolivar said, because his own body had not been left under the ruins of that city. But the fortress was irretrievably lost, and the tide of Fortune was turned against Independence. The cause of Venezuela seemed hopeless. Miran

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GOD MAKES A PATH

GOD MAKES A PATH

The date of Roger Williams’s birth is unknown, probably about 1604 or 1607 He founded Providence, about June 23-24, 1636 He died, 1684 He has been called “The Apostle of Soul Liberty.”...

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ROGER, THE BOY

ROGER, THE BOY

The exact date of Roger Williams’s birth is unknown. Nor are his historians agreed on the place where he was born. It is generally thought that he was born in London, where his father was a tailor. He is also said to have been distantly related to Oliver Cromwell. When Roger Williams was a boy, a new system of writing had been devised, called shorthand. He learned it, and, going to the Star Chamber, took down some of the sermons and speeches. The Judge, Sir Edward Coke, was so pleased with his w

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SOUL LIBERTY

SOUL LIBERTY

In those days in England, many members of the Established Church believed that the Church needed reforming, or purifying . These members were called Puritans . They were severely persecuted. A number of them emigrated from England to Massachusetts Bay. One body of these colonists settled in Salem, and another founded Charlestown and Boston. About a year after the settlement of Boston, a young man came thither from England. He, too, had left home because of religious persecution. He was known to

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WHAT CHEER! Providence Founded 1636

WHAT CHEER! Providence Founded 1636

Without bitterness or complaint, Roger Williams prepared immediately to abandon the cabin he had built at Seekonk, and the fields which he had so industriously sown and cultivated. With five companions who had joined him there, he entered his canoe and dropped down the river, watching the bank for an inviting landing. On approaching a little cove, friendly voices saluted him. On Slate Rock, Indians were waiting to welcome him. “What cheer, Netop!” they exclaimed. It was a salutation, meaning, “H

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RISKING HIS LIFE

RISKING HIS LIFE

No one can say that Roger Williams was not a good Christian, a better one than those who drove him from his home, for he soon risked his own life to save them from danger. The fierce and warlike Indians of the Pequot tribe had made an attack on the settlers, and were trying to get the large and powerful tribe of the Narragansetts to join them. They wished to kill all the white people of the Plymouth Colony, and drive the pale faces from the country. The people of Plymouth and of Boston, too, wer

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PAUL JONES

PAUL JONES

John Paul Jones was born in Scotland, July 6, 1747 Was the first American Naval officer to receive a foreign salute for the Stars and Stripes, 1778 Won the victory over the Serapis , 1779 He died in Paris, July 18, 1792 His body was brought to America in 1905 and interred with honours at the U. S. Naval Academy, Annapolis....

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THE BOY OF THE SOLWAY

THE BOY OF THE SOLWAY

Born by the seashore of Scotland where the tide heaves up the Solway, living on a promontory surrounded by romantic scenery, and with the words of seafaring men constantly ringing in his ears, the boy, John Paul, longed to be a sailor. He was the son of a poor gardener. But he was of that poetic romantic temperament, which always builds gorgeous structures in the future; and no boy, with a fancy like that of John Pul could be content to live the humdrum life of a gardener’s son. So he launched f

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DON’T TREAD ON ME!

DON’T TREAD ON ME!

In 1775, when our War for Independence broke out, Paul Jones commenced his brilliant career. Some men regard him as a sort of freebooter turned Patriot—an adventurer to whom the American War was a God-send, in that it kept him from being a pirate. But nothing could be farther from the truth. When the War broke out, he offered to serve in the Navy. Congress accepted his offer, and appointed him first lieutenant in the Alfred . As the commander-in-chief of the squadron came on board the Alfred , P

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THE FIRST SALUTE

THE FIRST SALUTE

That Flag and I are twins, born at the same hour.... We cannot be parted in life or death. So long as we shall float, we shall float together. If we sink, we shall go down as one. Paul Jones June 14, 1777, was a great day for the United States and for Paul Jones. On that self-same day, Congress passed two famous Resolutions;—and Commander Paul Jones and the Flag of the Nation were “born at the same hour”:— Resolved : that the Flag of the Thirteen United States be thirteen Stripes, alternate red

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THE POOR RICHARD

THE POOR RICHARD

Paul Jones gave up the command of the Ranger in order to take command of a larger ship, promised him by the French Government. But he had a long discouraging period of waiting for the new ship. It was then that he wrote to a French official, those famous words:— “I will not have anything to do with ships which do not sail fast, for I intend to go in harm’s way.” After months of desperate waiting and after writing many letters, Paul Jones chanced to be reading a copy of Franklin’s “Poor Richard’s

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MICKLE’S THE MISCHIEF HE HAS DUNE

MICKLE’S THE MISCHIEF HE HAS DUNE

With seven ships in all—a snug little squadron for Jones, had the different commanders been subordinate—he set sail in the Richard from France, and steered for the coast of Ireland. The want of proper subordination was soon made manifest, for in a week’s time the vessels, one after another, parted company, to cruise by themselves, till Paul Jones had with him but the Alliance , Pallas , and Vengeance . In a tremendous storm he bore away, and after several days of gales and heavy seas, approached

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PAUL JONES HIMSELF

PAUL JONES HIMSELF

Paul Jones was slight, being only five feet and a half high. A stoop in his shoulders diminished still more his stature. But he was firmly knit, and capable of enduring great fatigue. He had dark eyes and a thoughtful, pensive look when not engaged in conversation; but his countenance lighted up in moments of excitement, and in battle became terribly determined. His lips closed like a vice, while his brow contracted with the rigidity of iron. The tones of his voice were then haughty in the extre

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SOME OF HIS SAYINGS

SOME OF HIS SAYINGS

I will not have anything to do with ships which do not sail fast, for I intend to go in harm’s way. ( During the fight with the Serapis ) Don’t swear, Mr. Stacy, we may at the next moment be in Eternity; but let us do our duty. I have not yet begun to fight! I have ever looked out for the honour of the American Flag. I can never renounce the glorious title of a Citizen of the United States. I can accept of no honour that will call in question my devotion to America. Colombians! All your beauteou

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BOLIVAR

BOLIVAR

Bolivar was born in Venezuela, July 24, 1783 Formed the Republic of Great Colombia, 1819 He died in exile, December 17, 1830 His full name was Simon Jose Antonio de la Santisima Trinidad de Bolivar y Palacios. But he was known as the citizen, Simon Bolivar Bolivar’s name is pronounced, Seemon Boleevar The old-fashioned English way was to pronounce it Bollevaar, as in the poem above....

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THE PRECIOUS JEWEL

THE PRECIOUS JEWEL

Two boys were playing a royal game of tennis in the royal tennis court at Madrid in Spain. The rich American boy, Simon de Bolivar, from Venezuela, was serving swift ball after swift ball to Ferdinand, Prince of the Asturias and heir to the Spanish throne. The Queen-mother was looking on. The Prince saw that he was losing, and grew angry. Bolivar, small, alert, with dark eyes flashing, played on, still winning until the Prince refused to play any longer. But the Queen-mother sternly bade her son

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THE FIERY YOUNG PATRIOT

THE FIERY YOUNG PATRIOT

Young Bolivar returned to his estates in Venezuela. But he stayed there only for a little while. He soon gave up the easy indulgent life of wealth to serve the Patriot cause. He was sent on a mission to England. In London he met Miranda, the Flaming Son of Liberty, whose burning, persuasive words blew into a flame, the sparks of Liberty which Rodriguez had kindled in Bolivar’s bosom. Bolivar joined Miranda’s secret society. He urged Miranda to return at once to Venezuela and strengthen the Patri

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SEEING BOLIVAR

SEEING BOLIVAR

High adventure and spicy dangers were awaiting the first corps of hot-headed young Englishmen who volunteered to fight for Venezuela. They shipped from England. And after thrilling escapes on the coast of Spanish Florida and among the West Indies, after many feasts of venison, wild turkey, turtle, parrots, “tree-oysters,” and lizard, they reached Venezuela. There, higher adventures and spicier dangers were waiting. They were convoyed by brig and launches up the swift river Orinoco. They were mar

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UNCLE PAEZ—THE LION OF THE APURE

UNCLE PAEZ—THE LION OF THE APURE

Paez was one of Bolivar’s most daring and picturesque generals. It would take a whole book to tell of his romantic adventures and how he was exiled and came to live in New York. There is a painting of him and his dashing cowboys in the Municipal Building of the City of New York. At first he was a llanero or cowboy of the plains. He was of mighty strength, and was a magnificent horseman. He knew well how to use the llanero’s lance with all its cunning tricks. His men were cowboys, horsemen, and f

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ANGOSTURA February 15, 1819

ANGOSTURA February 15, 1819

Down the upper Orinoco River, Bolivar’s canoe was slipping quietly past wide savannahs, palm-tufted isles, and overhanging trees. While reclining in the boat, he dictated to his secretary. During the heat of the day they both landed, and Bolivar, lolling in a hammock under the shadow of the giant trees, one hand playing with the lapel of his coat and a forefinger on his upper lip, kept on dictating as the mood seized him. He was composing a new Constitution for the Republic of Venezuela, which w

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THE CROSSING

THE CROSSING

This crossing of the Andes was terrible. The hardships which Bolivar’s troops endured are indescribable. At that time of year, the plains were flooded. The infantry were obliged to march for hours together up to their middle in water. Sometimes the men fell into holes, or stuck fast in the marshes. Many of the soldiers were bitten in their legs and thighs by little goldfish, brilliant orange in colour and exceedingly voracious. Whole swarms of these little fish came rushing through the water, wi

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PERU NEXT

PERU NEXT

Now was Bolivar at the height of his power. He had liberated Venezuela and New Granada. He had founded the Great Republic of Colombia, and had given it a Constitution. He was practically Dictator of the Republic. He had sent his favourite General, the heroic Antonio de Sucre, to liberate Quito. Bolivar now turned his eyes toward Peru. In his ambition he dreamed of a Greater Colombia which should include that country. But there was an obstacle in his way. Peru had already declared her Independenc

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THE BREAK

THE BREAK

Exiled from Venezuela, consumptive, wellnigh penniless, insulted by his own people, was Bolivar only a few years later. The creation of his genius, the Great Colombia, was rent with revolutions. His own General Paez had abandoned him. His friend Antonio Sucre had been assassinated. Bitterness filled Bolivar’s soul, his pride was broken, but he still loved Colombia. His dying words to her people, were:— Colombians! My last wishes are for the happiness of my native Land. If my death helps to check

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BOLIVAR THE MAN

BOLIVAR THE MAN

Simon de Bolivar was about five feet six inches in height, lean of limb and body. His cheek bones stood out prominently in an oval-shaped face, which tapered sharply towards the chin. His countenance was vivacious; but his skin was furrowed with wrinkles and tanned by exposure to a tropical sun. The curly black hair that once covered Bolivar’s head in luxuriant profusion, began to turn white about 1821. Thenceforth, he was accustomed to wear his hair short. His nose was long and aquiline. Flexib

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O’HIGGINS

O’HIGGINS

The name of O’Higgins ... has a double lustre; because it was borne by two generations with an almost equal brilliancy. It is seldom that a genius such as Ambrose O’Higgins the father, the greatest Viceroy of royalist Spanish America, bears a man such as Bernardo O’Higgins the son, first chief of the new Republic which sprang up from the ashes of his dead father’s Government. W. H. KOEBEL Bernardo O’Higgins alone was able to accomplish and establish the semblance of decent dignified government i

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THE SON OF THE BAREFOOT BOY

THE SON OF THE BAREFOOT BOY

Ambrose O’Higgins was like the bright lad in the fairy tale, who started out to seek his fortune with a knapsack on his back. Ambrose was only a servant-boy in Ireland, barefoot some say, running errands for the Lady of Castle Dangan in County Meath. Then one day he set out to seek his fortune in Spain where he had an uncle. He did not find it there. So he bought a stock of merchandise, and took ship for South America, the wonderful country, where, so people said, one could get treasure and emer

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THE SINGLE STAR FLAG

THE SINGLE STAR FLAG

It was the Fourth of July. The United States Consulate in Chile was celebrating our Independence Day. Over the Consulate floated the Stars and Stripes, and with it was entwined, for the first time, a tri-coloured flag, red, white, and blue, with a single five-pointed silver star in its upper left hand corner. It was the new Republican Flag of Chile. Soon one saw the Patriots of Santiago on the streets, wearing red, white, and blue cockades. And shortly after this the Single Star Flag was adopted

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THE HERO OF RANCAGUA

THE HERO OF RANCAGUA

But Spain was not going to permit Chile to hoist a Flag of Independence. She despatched armed frigates and war vessels along the Pacific coast, for she was determined to crush the Patriot uprising once and for all. From her stronghold, Lima, she sent out fresh troops seasoned in European wars. This strong Spanish force marched down through Chile upon helpless Santiago City. The Patriot Army, very small and badly equipped, took its stand bravely near the town of Rancagua hoping to keep the Spanis

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COMPANIONS-IN-ARMS

COMPANIONS-IN-ARMS

Then Argentina and Chile joined forces against Spain. O’Higgins and San Martin became companions-in-arms. About all that they accomplished, about the Hannibal of the Andes, Chacabuco, Maipu, and the strong fleet which O’Higgins assembled to carry San Martin and his Army to Peru, you may read in the story of San Martin on page 235 . There, also, it is told how O’Higgins became the Supreme Dictator of Chile, the land where his father the barefoot boy, had found a fortune....

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THE PATRIOT RULER

THE PATRIOT RULER

So while San Martin with his army sailed away to liberate Peru, the unselfish Supreme Dictator stayed at home to care for his people. Now that the Spanish were driven out, the Country was in a chaotic condition, its laws and Government in confusion. With wisdom, patience, and tact, O’Higgins began the work of reconstruction. And how well he succeeded Captain Basil Hall, an English naval officer, tells in his journal. “We left Valparaiso harbour filled with shipping; its customhouse wharfs piled

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FIRST SOLDIER, FIRST CITIZEN

FIRST SOLDIER, FIRST CITIZEN

The rest is soon told. Bernardo O’Higgins, with his mother and his sister Rosa, went into exile. He sought refuge in Peru. He reached there after the Amazing Meeting. San Martin was gone. The Peruvians welcomed him with sincere hospitality. They gladly offered to shelter him in his exile. They gratefully acknowledged all that he had done to help equip the Liberating Army which had freed Peru. They gave him a fine sugar plantation, and honoured him in every way they could. So he lived quietly amo

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CHILE AS SHE IS

CHILE AS SHE IS

Sunny , happy, smiling Chile, stretches like a broad ribbon unrolling itself along the Pacific coast of South America. To-day she is a Republic with a Constitution and a President. Chile is a prosperous Republic; for after civil war and political struggles, she has found herself, and is even stronger and more vigorous than when under the rule of Bernardo O’Higgins. High in her background loom the Andes, their jagged summits covered with eternal snows; while in their hearts are valleys, lakes, an

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ONE OF TWENTY

ONE OF TWENTY

Chile is only one of twenty flourishing Latin American Republics. They are called Latin American, because they were settled by Latin Races, Spanish, French, or Portuguese. There are eighteen Spanish-American ones; one French, Haiti; and one Portuguese, Brazil. In these twenty Republics there are more than 75,000,000 people. This book is too short a one in which to tell about all the Liberators of these Republics. There was Toussaint l’Ouverture, the extraordinary coloured man, an ex-slave, who l

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THE BETTER WAY

THE BETTER WAY

To-day , high on a ridge of the Andes Mountains, high, high above the level of the sea, stands a gigantic bronze monument. It is a figure raised on a pedestal. In one hand it holds a cross, while it extends the other hand in blessing. The winter winds sweep against it with driving storms of snow. The summer winds whirl drifts of sand around its base. But with peaceful look, the figure gazes far beyond the black rocks, frozen peaks, and rushing torrents of the Andes, toward the busy world of men.

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LAFAYETTE SAID WHEN OFFERING HIS SERVICES TO CONGRESS

LAFAYETTE SAID WHEN OFFERING HIS SERVICES TO CONGRESS

After the sacrifices I have made, I have the right to exact two favours. One is to serve at my own expense—the other is, to serve at first as volunteer....

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JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, TO LAFAYETTE On Bidding Him Farewell, in 1825

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, TO LAFAYETTE On Bidding Him Farewell, in 1825

Our children, in life and after death, shall claim you for our own. You are ours by that more than patriotic devotion with which you flew to the aid of our Fathers at the crisis of their fate.... Ours by that tie of love, stronger than death, which has linked your name, for endless ages to come, with the name of Washington . Lafayette was born in France, September 6, 1757 He came to the rescue of America, 1777 He made his triumphal tour, 1824-25 He died in France, May 20, 1834 His full name was

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I WILL JOIN THE AMERICANS!

I WILL JOIN THE AMERICANS!

One night, in 1776, the old Marshal, Commander of the French forces at Strasburg, was giving a dinner party in honour of the Duke of Gloucester. This light-hearted English Duke was in disgrace with his royal brother King George the Third of England; so he was taking a little trip abroad. At the Marshal’s dinner he was maliciously regaling the guests with a humorous account of how the Americans had flouted King George and had flung his chests of tea into Boston Harbour, and had declared their Ind

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IN AMERICA

IN AMERICA

Accompanied by Baron de Kalb, Lafayette safely reached America, and presented his credentials to Congress. Washington met him first at a dinner in Philadelphia. He was so pleased with Lafayette’s eager, brave spirit, and with his unselfish offer of sword and fortune for the American cause, that he invited him to become a member of his family, and to make Headquarters his home. Lafayette was delighted, and immediately had his luggage taken to the camp. And from that time on, he was always a welco

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ON THE FIELD NEAR CAMDEN

ON THE FIELD NEAR CAMDEN

What became of Lafayette’s companion, the Baron de Kalb? He served his adopted country, the United States, until at the battle near Camden, he fell, still fighting though pierced by eleven wounds. “The rebel General! the rebel General!” shouted the British soldiers who saw him fall. And they rushed forward to transfix him with their bayonets. But his faithful adjutant tried to throw himself on the Baron’s body to shield it, crying out at the same time, “Spare the Baron de Kalb!” The rough soldie

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THE BANNER OF THE MORAVIAN NUNS

THE BANNER OF THE MORAVIAN NUNS

It was the young and gallant Marquis de Lafayette, who during the terrible rout on the field of Brandywine, leaped from his horse, and sword in hand tried to rally the fleeing American soldiers. But a musket ball passing through his leg, he fell wounded to the ground. His brave aide-de-camp placed Lafayette on his own horse, thus saving his life. Lafayette then tried to rejoin Washington, but his wound bled so badly that he had to stop and have his leg bandaged. Meanwhile, it was growing dark. A

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LOYAL TO THE CHIEF

LOYAL TO THE CHIEF

It was during that terrible Winter at Valley Forge, that Generals Gates and Conway “with malice and duplicity,” were plotting against Washington. They wanted to win the young and influential Marquis de Lafayette to their conspiracy. They planned to do so by separating him from Washington. So they used their influence to have him appointed to an independent command, with Conway as his chief lieutenant. And this they did without consulting Washington. But they reckoned without their host. The gall

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WE ARE GRATEFUL, LAFAYETTE!

WE ARE GRATEFUL, LAFAYETTE!

During the War for Independence, Lafayette served without pay. He also cheerfully expended one hundred and forty thousand dollars out of his own fortune, purchasing a ship to bring him to America, and raising, equipping, arming, and clothing a regiment. And when he landed in America, he brought with him munitions of war, which he presented to our Army. He gave shoes, clothes, and food to our naked suffering American soldiers. After the War was over, some small recognition was offered him by our

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SOME OF WASHINGTON’S HAIR

SOME OF WASHINGTON’S HAIR

Cordial ties bound the land of Washington to the land of Bolivar one hundred years ago. Then the South American Liberator was held in such high esteem here, that after the death of Washington his family sent Bolivar several relics of the national hero of the United States, including locks of Washington’s hair. The gift was transmitted through Lafayette, who had it presented to Bolivar by a French officer. And the latter bore back to the noble French comrade of Washington, an eloquent letter of t

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WELCOME! FRIEND OF AMERICA! 1824-25

WELCOME! FRIEND OF AMERICA! 1824-25

It was twenty-five years after the death of Washington. It was 1824. In New York City, joy bells were ringing, bands playing, cannon saluting, flags waving, and two hundred thousand people wildly cheering. The Marquis de Lafayette was visiting America. He was landing at the Battery. He was no longer the slender, debonair, young French officer who, afire with ardent courage, had served under Washington, but a man of sixty-seven, large, massive, almost six feet tall, his rugged face expressing a s

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THE BOY OF THE FRONTIER

THE BOY OF THE FRONTIER

Through the ancient and unbroken forests, toward the Monongahela River, Braddock made his slow and painful way. Weeks passed, then months. But the Colonists felt no impatience because everybody knew what would happen when his scarlet columns should finally meet and throw themselves upon the enemy. Yet this meeting when it came, proved to be one of the lesser tragedies of history, and had a deep and fateful effect upon American public opinion, and upon the life and future of the American People.

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THE YOUNG LIEUTENANT

THE YOUNG LIEUTENANT

When John Marshall was nineteen, he was about six feet high, straight, and rather slender, and of dark complexion. His eyes were dark to blackness, strong and penetrating, beaming with intelligence and good nature. His raven black hair was of unusual thickness. He was Lieutenant of a Company, and wore a purple or pale blue hunting shirt, and trousers of the same material fringed with white. A round black hat, with a buck-tail for a cockade, crowned his figure. The news of the Battle of Lexington

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SERVING THE CAUSE

SERVING THE CAUSE

Young John Marshall became a Lieutenant in the first regiment of Minute Men raised in Virginia. These were the citizen soldiery of the Colonies, who “were raised in a minute; armed in a minute; marched in a minute; fought in a minute; and vanquished in a minute.” His father Thomas Marshall was Major of this Virginia regiment of Minute Men. Their appearance was calculated to strike terror into the hearts of an enemy. They were dressed in green hunting-shirts, home-spun, home-woven, and home-made,

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AT VALLEY FORGE

AT VALLEY FORGE

Through the battles of Iron Hill, of Brandywine, of Germantown, and of Monmouth, John Marshall bore himself bravely. And through the dreary privations, the hunger, and the nakedness of that ghastly Winter at Valley Forge, his patient endurance and his cheeriness bespoke the very sweetest temper that ever man was blessed with. So long as any lived to speak, men would tell how he was loved by the soldiers and by his brother officers; how he was the arbiter of their differences and the composer of

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SILVER HEELS

SILVER HEELS

Young John Marshall surpassed in athletics, any man in the Army. When the soldiers were idle at their quarters, it was usual for the officers to engage in a game of quoits or in jumping and racing. Then he would throw a quoit farther, and beat at a race any other. He was the only man, who with a running jump, could clear a stick laid on the heads of two men as tall as himself. On one occasion, he ran a race in his stocking feet with a comrade. His mother, in knitting his stockings, had knit the

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WITHOUT BREAD Told by John Marshall’s Sister

WITHOUT BREAD Told by John Marshall’s Sister

He was then an officer in the American Army, and he came home for a visit, accompanied by some of his brother officers, some young French gentlemen. When supper time arrived, Mother had the meal prepared for them, and had made into bread a little flour, the last she had, which had been saved for such an occasion. The little ones cried for some, and Brother John inquired into matters. He would eat no more of the bread, which could not be shared with us. He was greatly distressed at the straits to

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HIS MOTHER

HIS MOTHER

John Marshall’s mother, Mary Isham Keith, was a woman of great force of character and strong religious faith. She was pleasing in mind, person, and manners. And her son loved her with that chivalrous tender devotion, which made him gentle with all women throughout his life. A few weeks before his death, John Marshall told his friend, Judge Story, that he had never failed to repeat each night, through his long life, the little prayer which begins:— that he had learned, when a baby, at his mother’

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HIS FATHER

HIS FATHER

His father, Thomas Marshall, served with great distinction during the War for Independence. He was a man of uncommon capacity and vigour of intellect. John Marshall, after he became Chief Justice, used often to speak of him in terms of the deepest affection and reverence. Indeed, he never named his father, without dwelling on his character with a fond and winning enthusiasm. “My father,” he would say with kindled feelings and emphasis, “my father was a far abler man than any of his sons. To him

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THREE STORIES

THREE STORIES

One Autumn, John Marshall was invited to visit Mount Vernon, in company with Washington’s nephew. On their way to Mount Vernon, the two travellers met with a misadventure, which gave great amusement to Washington, and of which he enjoyed telling his friends. They came on horseback, and carried but one pair of saddlebags, each using one side. Arriving thoroughly drenched by rain, they were shown to a chamber to change their garments. One opened his side of the bags, and drew forth a black bottle

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THE CONSTITUTION

THE CONSTITUTION

As the British Constitution is the most subtile organism, which has proceeded from progressive history; so the American Constitution is the most wonderful work ever struck off at a given time, by the brain and purpose of man. William Ewart Gladstone “A Constitution ,” says the dictionary, is “the fundamental organic law or principles of Government of a Nation, State, Society, or other organized body of men. “Also a written instrument embodying such law.” This is not so hard to understand:— The f

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EXPOUNDING THE CONSTITUTION

EXPOUNDING THE CONSTITUTION

Chief Justice Marshall took his place at the head of the National Judiciary. The Government under the Constitution, was only organized twelve years before, and in the interval eleven amendments of the Constitution had been regularly proposed and adopted. Comparatively nothing had been done judicially to define the powers or develop the resources of the Constitution. In short, the Nation, the Constitution, and the Laws were in their infancy. Under these circumstances, it was most fortunate for th

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THE GREAT CHIEF JUSTICE

THE GREAT CHIEF JUSTICE

I have always thought from my earliest youth till now, that the greatest scourge an angry Heaven ever inflicted upon an ungrateful and a sinning People, was an ignorant, a corrupt, or a dependent Judiciary. John Marshall When the venerable life of the Chief Justice was near its close, he was called to give his parting counsel to his native State, in the revision of her Constitution. A spectacle of greater dignity than the Convention of Virginia in the year 1829, has been rarely exhibited. At its

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WHAT OF THE CONSTITUTION?

WHAT OF THE CONSTITUTION?

The Unity of Government, which constitutes you One People, is also now dear to you. It is justly so; for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real Independence, the support of your tranquility at home, your peace abroad; of your safety; of your prosperity; of that very Liberty, which you so highly prize. ... To the efficacy and permanency of your Union, a Government for the whole is indispensable. Washington , from his Farewell Address To me it is a marvel that the Constitution of the Un

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I

I

FOR TEACHERS AND STORY-TELLERS This Programme may be used, day by day, in teaching the history of the United States. The stories are not intended to take the place of the textbook; but they may be utilized in many delightful ways to illustrate it. If they are told, or read aloud, or dramatized by the children, they will make historic events and characters stand out so vividly, that the boys and girls will never forget their American history. The stories are arranged by dates of leading events, s

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II

II

STORY PROGRAMME OF SOUTH AMERICA’S STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENDENCE The reader, teacher, or story-teller, who follows this outline, will find that it covers a short consecutive history of one of the most important and courageous world-struggles for Freedom. Portuguese America—Brazil—holds the honour of having declared its Republic with practically no shedding of blood. The struggle of the Spanish-American Colonies was conducted for long years against fearful odds. And their winning of the victory helpe

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