Alexis de Tocqueville: The Man and His Times

Alexis de Tocqueville is the author of arguably the most important study of American institutions and customs—Democracy in America. Who was Alexis de Tocqueville? Why did he visit America? When did he visit America, and what was going on here during his visit? What were his main arguments, and is his book still useful today? In this lecture, we will do some background work on Tocqueville in an effort to better appreciate the significance of this important figure and book.

 

Recommended Readings

Democracy in America: A New Abridgment for Students, Alexis de Tocqueville and edited by John D. Wilsey

The Chicago Companion to Tocqueville's Democracy in America, James T. Schieffer

Tocqueville in America, George Wilson Pierson

What Hath God Wrought: The Transformation of America, 1815-1848, Daniel Walker Howe

Course Years:

2022,
2019

Instructor