Divided We Stand: Watertown, Massachusetts, 1630-1680 [Paperback] Thompson, Roger

Description

Minimal signs of wear. Corners and cover may show wear. May contain highlighting and or writing. May be missing dust jacket. May not include supplemental materials. May be a former library book. If you are buying a box set item, the box may not be included.

This well-preserved copy of “Divided We Stand: Watertown, Massachusetts, 1630-1680” by Roger Thompson offers a captivating exploration of the early days of one of America’s oldest settlements. Published in 2001, this meticulously researched work delves into the social, political, and religious dynamics that shaped Watertown during its formative years, shedding light on the challenges faced by the Puritan colonists as they navigated the complexities of establishing a new community in the New World.

Thompson’s scholarly yet accessible narrative draws upon a wealth of primary sources, including town records, court documents, and personal correspondence, to paint a vivid portrait of life in 17th-century Watertown. Readers will gain insights into the town’s governance, economic activities, and the intricate relationships between its residents, including the influential Saltonstall and Phillips families.

Beyond its local focus, “Divided We Stand” serves as a microcosm of the broader struggles and triumphs that characterized the early colonial era in New England. Thompson’s nuanced analysis illuminates the tensions between religious ideals and practical realities, the ongoing conflicts with Native American tribes, and the ever-present threat of dissent and division within the Puritan ranks.

For collectors and enthusiasts of early American history, this volume represents a valuable addition to any library, offering a rare glimpse into the formative years of a town that would play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.