History Essay

The year 1827 can be characterized as an exciting period in time when many young people set out to achieve new fortune in the recently settled south and west territories. The letter, written by George Townes, describes the opportunity and prosperity available in Alabama in the 1820s and 1830s. Through close analysis of this letter, as a primary document, details of significant issues in politics and social life are revealed, merely by George Townes describing everyday life to his father, who lives in North Carolina.
The first question that comes to mind after reading this excerpt is: Why does George write back to his father in such a persuasive manner? From the beginning, George Townes encourages all those that will read his letter to drop everything, move to Alabama, and enjoy the prosperity and wealth that appears to be so abundant. “…Come West and live like kings!” he exclaims. He further describes the earth as lush and prime for farming. All land, from the high co...