Reprint of the original, first published in 1876.

This A-Z encyclopedia will survey the history, meaning, and enduring impact of the Liberty Bell in American culture. This title provides a one-stop resource for understanding the fascinating history and enduring importance of the Liberty Bell in the fabric of American culture, from the pre–Revolutionary War era to the present day. The encyclopedia explains key concepts, principles, and intellectual influences in the creation and display of the Liberty Bell; profiles its creators and leading champions; and surveys the place of the Bell and its home in Philadelphia's Independence Hall within the political and cultural lexicon of the nation. Additionally, it discusses important milestones and events in the bell's history and provides a sweeping overview of depictions of the Liberty Bell in historical and modern art, music, literature, and other cultural areas. It thus not only serves as a valuable resource in helping readers separate fact from myth regarding one of our nation's most potent national symbols but also provides a unique gateway for exploring the wider history of the United States.

This volume provides a history and catalog of the portraits by Charles Willson Peale, who painted heroes of the American revolution, founders of American government, statesmen, jurists, men of science, and individuals who contributed art and letters. The three chapters by Fanelli (Cultural Resources Management, Independence National Historical Park) discuss the collection from its inception through the period in which the shrine that housed it became a museum. Each of the 250 entries (mostly b&w, with a few in color) in the catalog includes a brief biography of the subject, a physical description of the painting, the circumstances under which it was created, and its provenance. They are arranged alphabetically by sitter. Edited by Karie Diethorn, chief curator, Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR