Patriot's History of the United States: From Columbus's Great Discovery to the War on Terror by Larry Schweikart & Michael Allen Summary

1. Schweikart and Allen present America as an exceptional "City on a Hill" nation.
2. A Patriot's History counters the liberal bias found in mainstream textbooks.
3. The book emphasizes politics, economics, and religion as America's foundations.
4. American mistakes are exceptions, not evidence of systemic corruption.
5. The Founding Fathers created an enduring framework for liberty and self-governance.
6. The authors dispute the "Noble Savage" interpretation of pre-Columbian America.
7. The Constitutional Convention produced a masterpiece of compromise and democratic foresight.
8. The Civil War preserved the Union while ending slavery through Lincoln's leadership.
9. A Patriot's History explicitly contradicts Howard Zinn's "A People's History."
10. The book rejects both "My country right or wrong" and "always wrong" approaches.
11. Westward expansion fulfilled Manifest Destiny despite bringing slavery tensions.
12. Revolutionary Patriots established democracy, inspiring future independence movements worldwide.

About the Author

Larry Schweikart and Michael Allen are the co-authors of A Patriot's History of the United States. Both are distinguished history professors and experts in American economic development and entrepreneurship. This comprehensive history textbook challenges the political correctness found in mainstream academic texts by emphasizing American exceptionalism, limited government, and the entrepreneurial spirit that built the nation.

Schweikart, a retired University of Dayton professor with nearly three decades of teaching experience, brings expertise in banking and business history, while Allen contributes his scholarly publication record. Schweikart has authored nearly 30 books, including 48 Liberal Lies About American History and Seven Events that Made America America, and has appeared on major media outlets including Rush Limbaugh, Fox News, and Glenn Beck. He was even invited to discuss military history with the President in the Oval Office in 2006.

A Patriot's History of the United States became a #1 New York Times bestseller and continues to serve as the leading alternative history textbook for readers seeking a pro-American perspective.

FAQs About This Book

What is A Patriot's History of the United States about?

A Patriot's History of the United States is a comprehensive 800-page American history book covering events from Columbus's discovery of the New World through the Iraq War. Written by Larry Schweikart and Michael Allen, this #1 New York Times bestseller presents American history from a conservative perspective, emphasizing the nation's triumphs, military achievements, and the positive contributions of entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Who are the authors of A Patriot's History of the United States?

Larry Schweikart and Michael Allen are the co-authors of A Patriot's History of the United States. They wrote this book to present American history through a patriotic lens, highlighting the courage and virtue of military heroes while defending the vital role of American businessmen and innovators in building the nation. Their approach aims to counter negative portrayals of capitalism and celebrate America's productive capabilities.

Who should read A Patriot's History of the United States?

A Patriot's History of the United States is ideal for readers who love history and want a conservative perspective on American events. It's perfect for those seeking a book that will "provoke discussion" and help them view U.S. history from a patriotic viewpoint. The book appeals to readers interested in military history, the positive role of capitalism, and those who want to develop a deeper appreciation for America's achievements and character.

Is A Patriot's History of the United States worth reading?

A Patriot's History of the United States is worth reading if you're prepared for its conservative bias and have time for a substantial commitment. Readers appreciate its comprehensive coverage from Vikings to 9/11, detailed military descriptions, and chapter timelines. However, some find parts uninteresting due to numerous names and confusing details, so it's best suited for dedicated history enthusiasts rather than casual readers seeking pure factual content.

What is the main bias in A Patriot's History of the United States?

A Patriot's History of the United States presents a distinctly conservative, pro-American bias that celebrates capitalism and military achievements. The authors defend often-demonized business leaders like J.P. Morgan, Rockefeller, and Carnegie while criticizing "progressive" leaders like Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt. This perspective aims to show America as "a country built on hard work and character rather than bigotry, racism, and sexism."

How does A Patriot's History of the United States portray American businessmen?

A Patriot's History of the United States portrays American businessmen as heroes with personal integrity who were vital to the nation's success. The authors vindicate entrepreneurs and industry leaders, defending "the fantastic productive capabilities of capitalism" and honoring men who "enabled the United States to leapfrog past Britain and France in productivity, profitability, and innovation." They specifically rehabilitate the reputations of figures like J.P. Morgan, Eli Whitney, John D. Rockefeller, and Andrew Carnegie.

What military conflicts does A Patriot's History of the United States cover?

A Patriot's History of the United States provides detailed coverage of major American military conflicts, with particularly thorough descriptions of the Civil War and both World Wars. The authors excel at presenting "fast-paced" tactical descriptions and cover even minor military engagements, though Native American conflicts receive less detail. The book emphasizes how American entrepreneurs contributed to defeating Japan and Germany in World War II.

What are the main criticisms of A Patriot's History of the United States?

The main criticisms of A Patriot's History of the United States center on its heavy conservative bias and selective presentation of facts. Critics note it shouldn't be used as a "pure factual textbook" but rather as a perspective piece that will "provoke discussion." Some readers find parts uninteresting with "too many names to keep straight," making sections confusing. The book requires prior historical knowledge to fully appreciate its biased interpretations.

How does A Patriot's History of the United States structure American history?

A Patriot's History of the United States structures American history chronologically across multiple major periods, from European discovery through constitutional formation, Washington's presidency to the Civil War crisis, and Reconstruction to modern times. Each chapter includes helpful timelines showing key events covered in that section. The book spans from Columbus in 1492 through the Iraq War, organizing centuries of history into digestible chapters with clear chronological progression.

What makes A Patriot's History of the United States different from other history books?

A Patriot's History of the United States differs from other history books by deliberately presenting American history through a patriotic, conservative lens that celebrates the nation's achievements. Unlike traditional textbooks, it emphasizes the positive contributions of military heroes and businessmen while defending capitalism against progressive criticism. The authors aim to instill "a sense of awe at the obstacles overcome, the passion invested, the blood and tears spilled, and the nation that was built."