First published in 1888, The American Commonwealth was an instant classic, a three-volume set discussing the political structure of American society, its legal system, and its people with an analysis that is both broad and in-depth.

Volume III covers those American institutions that exist beyond the realm of politics. These includes churches, Wall Street, the universities, and railroads. Bryce also covers social topics such as equality, the position of women, and the quality of life in America.

Anyone with an interest in politics or American history will find Bryce's commentary penetratingly insightful.


British historian VISCOUNT JAMES BRYCE (1838-1922) attended the University of Glasgow and Trinity College, Oxford. He is best known for his scholarship of the Holy Roman Empire. His popular works include Studies in History and Jurisprudence (1901) and Studies in Contemporary Biography (1903).