Early America did not have the communications technology we have today. No speed. No instant gratification. No 140-character limit. The first Americans relied on the handwritten word,
communication that required careful thought and a degree of unabridged inclusion. Every bit of information needed to be included at risk of not being able to reply or follow up quickly.
Something That Will Surprise the World: The Essential Writings of the Founding Fathers is another collection of letters culled from America's formative years. Included are letters from George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Editor Susan Dunn explores the grandiosity of the Founding Fathers with her introduction. Yes, these men are on a pedestal, and rightfully so, but they were also flawed human beings as well.
Dunn's conclusion to the introduction reads, "This book contains many of their most important letters, speeches and essays. Here you will find the Founders, in the present tense of their lives, unfiltered, unscripted by a narrator, unshaped by a storyline. Read their words and they will tell you who they are."
Indeed, much has been written, and these letters are a welcome addition to the legends, myths and actual truths of the Founding Fathers. Be prepared, as the writings are quite long and exceptionally detailed. It will be a significant investment to open sit down with these letters, speeches and essays.