For Gordon S. Wood, the American Revolution is the most important event in our history, bar none. Since American identity is so fluid and complex, we have had to continually return to our nation’s founding to understand who we are.

In a series of illuminating essays, he explores the ideological origins of the Revolution—from Ancient Rome to the European Enlightenment—and the founders’ attempts to forge a new democracy. He reflects on the origins of American exceptionalism, the radicalism and failed hopes of the founding generation, and the “terrifying gap” between us and the men who created the democratic state we now take for granted.

Gracefully written and filled with insight, The Idea of America is a profoundly revealing look at the event that forged the United States and its enduring power to define us.

The Presidential library system comprises 14 Presidential libraries. These facilities are overseen by the Office of Presidential Libraries, in the National Archives and Records Administration.

Under the Presidential Libraries Act in 1955 (amended in 1986), through archives, museums, and public programs, Presidential libraries continue to preserve the documents and artifacts of our Presidents, helping us learn about our nation and our democracy.