Alfred Henry Lewis 
An American Patrician, or The Story of Aaron Burr 
Illustrated

Alfred Henry Lewis’s ‘An American Patrician, or The Story of Aaron Burr’ delves into the complex character of Aaron Burr, exploring his political ambitions, controversial legacy, and the era of early American politics in which he lived. The narrative is rich in historical detail, offering a nuanced portrayal of Burr’s life and the social forces that shaped him. Lewis’s prose is elegant and evocative, immersing the reader in the political intrigue and personal drama of Burr’s world, while also reflecting the author’s keen insight into human nature and ambition. Alfred Henry Lewis, a prominent journalist and writer, was known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary on American society. His fascination with political figures like Burr led him to write this insightful biography, which sheds new light on a controversial and enigmatic figure in American history. Lewis’s deep knowledge of politics and society, as well as his narrative skill, make ‘An American Patrician’ a compelling and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the complexities of American history. I highly recommend ‘An American Patrician, or The Story of Aaron Burr’ to readers who enjoy engaging with historical biographies and exploring the intricacies of early American politics. Lewis’s vivid storytelling and nuanced analysis make this book a valuable addition to any library, offering a fresh perspective on a fascinating and enigmatic historical figure.

About the author

Alfred Henry Lewis (1857–1914) was an American journalist, lawyer, and novelist, whose work primarily explored themes of political and social intrigue. With a nuanced understanding of the intricacies of American politics and society at the turn of the 20th century, Lewis managed to blend lively narrative with incisive social commentary. In his book ‘An American Patrician, or The Story of Aaron Burr’ (1908), Lewis delves into the contentious life of the enigmatic founding father, Aaron Burr, vividly portraying the intrigues of early American political life through this biography novel. This particular work reflects Lewis’s intricate style, which often weaved factual history with fictional techniques to produce a comprehensive and engaging narrative. Lewis’s literary style cannot be shoehorned into a single category; he was as comfortable writing scathing satires as he was penning thoughtful social commentary. His other notable works include ‘The Boss’ and ‘The Sunset Trail, ‘ both reinforcing his reputation for sharp-wittedness and a deep understanding of the American legal and political landscape. As a significant literary figure from the Progressive Era, Lewis used his keen insight and storytelling prowess to not only entertain but also to challenge the status quo of his time.