A Discourse On the State and Prospects of American Literature: Delivered at Schenectady, July 24Th, 1821, Before the New-York Alpha of the Phi-Beta-Ka

Samuel L. Mitchill delivered this address before the New-York Alpha of Phi-Beta-Kappa society in 1821, and it covers an analysis of the state of American literature at that time including its prospects for greater intellectual and commercial success. Mitchill argues that more attention should be given to the promotion of science and the liberal arts. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the early development of American literature or history.