Going through my things last night, I came across a booklet that my grandfather gave me when I was young. A man who, incidentally, was awarded a bronze star for valor in the fight against fascism in WWII.
I don't know how I managed to hold on to it all these years. I've misplaced and forgotten some many other treasures. But, looking at it now, I'm grateful that I did.
The book is "I am an American: What Every Citizen Should Know" Compiled and edited by Francis Cavanah and Lloyd E. Smith. Published by Whitman Publishing Company, Racine, Wisconsin 1940.
It includes the complete texts of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and it's amendments (up to the 21st), excerpts from the Monroe Doctrine, and various quotes and letters from prominent (albeit mostly white) historical figures, along with some musings on the nature of citizenship and civic duty and other miscellany.
A cursory internet search reveals that I am not alone in having a grandparent bestow this gift. There are a few other, similar accounts, and some copies available on etsy and ebay. But, I was unable to find a digital copy.
I'm contemplating risking damage to the spine in order to scan and upload the contents. If there's enough interest in such an endeavor, I'll do it. Thanks to my uncle's generosity, I have quite a few other mementoes with which to remember grandpa.
#america #history #grandparents #wwii
