Review: "America 1844: Religious Fervor, Westward Expansion, and the Presidential Election that Tran

I really enjoyed this book. It is non-fiction and it tells the story of the growing pains experienced by the young United States during 1844. It hones in specifically on this year which was very pivotal. From the debates involving the annexation of Texas to the persecution of the early day Mormon, Adventists and Irish, it is the good, the bad and the ugly of our history. Because of the Polk’s presidency, events were set into motion that led us up to the Civil War. Many settlers headed west for the free land and to set up a new life and encountered hardships and death.

The author did a wonderful job detailing this time period. I loved his style. Where possible, he delivered the historical facts in an effortless, story-telling fashion that kept me turning pages. He was very adept at tying all the facts together to insure that the book flowed and you were kept aware of what was happening on all fronts in chronological order.

Make no mistake, this is a history book. Although Mr. Bicknell is masterful at keeping it entertaining, at times it can be tedious. If you are fascinated with this time period and intent on getting an in depth look at the events that were intermingling and building to the powder keg that cracks the foundations of our country, you will definitely want to read this book!!!