Give Me Liberty!: Volume 1

The textbook provides a survey of American history starting from the earliest interactions among Indigenous peoples, Europeans, and Africans, and extends in its second volume to the first decades of the 21st century. It aims to offer a clear and concise narrative that centers on the theme of the changing contours of American freedom. This thematic focus seeks to tie various historical periods and events together under the broad and evolving concept of freedom.

A significant update in the 7th edition is the introduction of two new co-authors: Kathleen DuVal and Lisa McGirr. DuVal brings expertise in Indigenous history, particularly in relation to early American history, while McGirr contributes her knowledge of later American history. The Preface outlines that DuVal was primarily responsible for revising the chapters dealing with the early periods of American history (Chapters 1 to 10), and McGirr handled the later periods (Chapters 18 to 28). Eric Foner continued to oversee revisions for the middle sections (Chapters 11 to 17).

One of the most notable enhancements in this edition is the increased focus on Indigenous history. This aligns with the book’s central theme of freedom, particularly how it has been perceived and pursued by Indigenous peoples. The Preface discusses how this edition aims to present a more nuanced portrayal of Indigenous sovereignty and the historical impact of their interactions with Europeans and, later, the US government. This includes discussions on treaties, land rights, and the cultural and political autonomy of Indigenous tribes. The Preface also touches on the authors’ methodological approach, emphasizing the integration of new scholarship and a multidimensional view of history that includes political, social, cultural, and economic aspects. These changes are intended to provide a more inclusive and historically accurate account that aligns with modern understandings of America’s past.

The central theme of Give Me Liberty! is The Evolving Concept of American Freedom, a dynamic and multifaceted principle that has shaped the nation’s identity and political landscape. The textbook emphasizes that freedom is not a static or unchanging ideal, but one that has transformed depending on the historical context, social forces, and political debates. By structuring the narrative around this theme, the authors highlight how the definition and implications of freedom have shifted from one era to another, influenced by both the actions of the state and the voices of its people.

The Preface also acknowledges The Impact of Social Movements and Political Conflicts on Liberty in the United States. The textbook promises to explore how various groups have fought to expand their freedoms and challenge the constraints imposed by prevailing social and political norms. By incorporating discussions of major social movements—from the civil rights movement to women’s suffrage and labor movements—the authors intend to illustrate how grassroots activism and political resistance have been pivotal in redefining liberty. These movements have often forced the nation to confront its contradictions and prompted significant legal and societal changes that have reformed the nation’s understanding of freedom.

One of the most significant updates in the 7th edition, as noted in the Preface, is the increased attention to The Significance of Diverse Groups in America, particularly Indigenous peoples. The authors detail their intent to present a more nuanced narrative that does not shy away from the complexities of these groups’ experiences with freedom and oppression. The textbook aims to go beyond traditional narratives that often marginalize or simplify the contributions of non-European groups. By doing so, it intends to acknowledge the diversity of American history, which includes the stories of Indigenous peoples, African Americans, women, and other groups who have shaped the nation’s historical trajectory.