Born in the U.S.A. (Bruce Springsteen)

History's Best Selling Products of 1840

1. Two Years Before the Mast

   Released in 1840 by Richard Henry Dana Jr., Harper & Brothers

   Published in 1840, 'Two Years Before the Mast' is a cornerstone of American maritime literature and social reform, offering an unprecedented look into the harsh lives of merchant sailors. Richard Henry Dana Jr.'s firsthand account not only captivated readers with its adventurous spirit but also shocked them with its detailed depiction of the cruelties and injustices faced by ordinary seamen. The book’s release in a period of growing social consciousness brought significant attention to the need for legal protections for sailors, directly contributing to legislative changes. Its historical significance lies in its dual role as a powerful memoir and an impactful social critique, fundamentally altering public perception of the maritime world.