Published in 1784, the first volume of Jeremy Belknap's 'The History of New Hampshire' stands as a profoundly significant achievement in early American historiography. At a time when the nascent United States was striving to define its identity, both nationally and regionally, Belknap’s work provided a meticulously researched and remarkably objective account of one of its constituent states. It offered a crucial foundation for understanding the geographical, political, and social evolution of New Hampshire from its earliest European settlements through the transformative years leading up to the Revolution. This seminal text not only documented the past but also played a vital role in shaping a distinct New Hampshire consciousness and contributed to the broader intellectual project of charting the histories of the newly formed commonwealths, setting a high standard for subsequent regional studies across the young nation.
What it is
Belknap’s 'The History of New Hampshire' is a comprehensive historical narrative, with its first volume covering the region's geography, natural history, early Native American inhabitants, the initial European settlements, and the progression of its colonial government up to 1717. It delved into the intricacies of land grants, boundary disputes, economic development, and religious life. What set Belknap apart was his commitment to presenting a balanced and fact-based account, eschewing the often partisan or provincial biases common in earlier historical writings. He meticulously cited his sources, including original documents, official records, and eyewitness testimonies, providing an evidentiary framework that was remarkably advanced for its era and served as a model for future historians.
How it came to be
The genesis of 'The History of New Hampshire' was Jeremy Belknap's deep personal interest in the history of his home state and his belief in the importance of documenting its past for future generations. He began his extensive research in the late 1760s, a monumental undertaking that spanned over two decades. Belknap tirelessly traveled throughout New England, visiting towns, private libraries, and government archives to collect and transcribe original documents, letters, and court records. He also corresponded with various individuals, soliciting their personal recollections and papers. The challenges were immense, from scattered and disorganized records to the difficulty of travel and communication in the 18th century, yet Belknap’s scholarly dedication propelled him through the arduous process, culminating in the first volume's publication in 1784.
How many it sold
The first volume of 'The History of New Hampshire' was primarily sold by subscription, a common method for financing scholarly works in the 18th century. This approach meant that distribution was not aimed at a mass market but rather at a targeted audience of educated elites, government officials, and interested gentlemen who understood the value of such a detailed historical record. While precise print run numbers are elusive, the subscription model typically implied a modest initial printing, likely a few hundred copies, sufficient to cover the subscriptions and some additional sales. Its circulation was intellectual rather than popular, ensuring it reached influential figures and institutions, which magnified its impact despite comparatively low sales figures by modern standards.
Why it resonated
Belknap’s history resonated significantly within the intellectual and political circles of the newly independent United States. In the wake of the Revolution, states were actively forging their unique identities and traditions, and Belknap provided a foundational narrative for New Hampshire. His objective, evidence-based approach stood in stark contrast to earlier, often hagiographic or polemical colonial histories, earning him respect among scholars and patriots alike. It appealed to a public keen on understanding the origins and development of their commonwealth, offering a sense of collective past and shared experience crucial for civic cohesion. The book became a vital reference, shaping how New Hampshirites perceived their heritage and place within the new nation.
Impact today
Jeremy Belknap's 'The History of New Hampshire' holds enduring significance as a foundational text in American historiography and remains an indispensable resource for scholars today. It is still considered the authoritative early history of the state, frequently cited in academic works, textbooks, and local histories. Beyond its subject matter, Belknap’s innovative methodology—emphasizing primary source research, critical analysis, and a commitment to objectivity—set a benchmark for historical scholarship in the fledgling nation, influencing subsequent state and regional histories. His meticulous documentation preserved countless details that would otherwise have been lost, making his work a continuous source for understanding colonial New Hampshire and the broader context of early American development.
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