American Antiquarian Society: A democratic view of history

When Revolutionary patriot Isaiah Thomas (1749-1831) founded the American Antiquarian Society in 1812, he wanted to ensure it reflected the democratic ideals of the new country. Although he was a prosperous publisher, Thomas grew up in poverty after his father abandoned the family. His journey from an indentured, 7-year-old printer's apprentice to an enterprising businessman gave him insight into the common man's experience and the driving forces that propel societal change. Later, as a print hi

When Revolutionary patriot Isaiah Thomas (1749-1831) founded the American Antiquarian Society in 1812, he wanted to ensure it reflected the democratic ideals of the new country. Although he was a prosperous publisher, Thomas grew up in poverty after his father abandoned the family. His journey from an indentured, 7-year-old printer's apprentice to an enterprising businessman gave him insight into the common man's experience and the driving forces that propel societal change. Later, as a print hi…