Daniel G. Brinton 
The Philosophic Grammar of American Languages, as Set Forth by Wilhelm von Humboldt 
With the Translation of an Unpublished Memoir by Him on the American Verb

In ‘The Philosophic Grammar of American Languages, as Set Forth by Wilhelm von Humboldt’, Daniel G. Brinton delves into the intricate linguistic structures of American languages through the lens of Humboldt’s philosophy. Brinton explores the concept of linguistic relativity and its impact on understanding the diverse grammatical features of indigenous American languages. Drawing on empirical evidence and linguistic analysis, the book showcases Brinton’s meticulous attention to detail and scholarly expertise in the field of linguistics. The juxtaposition of Humboldt’s theories with the linguistic richness of American languages provides readers with a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of language and culture. Brinton’s writing style is both insightful and engaging, making this book a valuable contribution to the study of American languages and linguistic theory. Daniel G. Brinton, a renowned linguist and anthropologist, was deeply influenced by Humboldt’s theories and dedicated his research to the study of indigenous American languages. His background in comparative linguistics and ethnology equipped him with the necessary tools to analyze and interpret the complexities of American languages. Brinton’s passion for understanding linguistic diversity shines through in this seminal work, showcasing his commitment to preserving and celebrating indigenous languages. ‘The Philosophic Grammar of American Languages, as Set Forth by Wilhelm von Humboldt’ is a must-read for linguists, anthropologists, and anyone interested in the intricate connections between language, thought, and culture. Brinton’s comprehensive analysis and groundbreaking insights make this book an essential resource for scholars and students alike.

About the author

Daniel Garrison Brinton (1837–1899) was a distinguished American archaeologist and ethnologist, renowned for his scholarly work on Native American cultures. With a medical degree from Jefferson Medical College, Brinton served as a surgeon in the Union Army during the American Civil War before turning his focus to the study of linguistics and anthropology. His proficiency in these fields positioned him as a prominent authority on the languages and societies of indigenous peoples in the Americas. One of Brinton’s notable contributions to the field is ‘The Philosophic Grammar of American Languages, as Set Forth by Wilhelm von Humboldt’, wherein he systematically examined the intricacies of American indigenous languages through the philosophic linguistic framework of German philosopher Wilhelm von Humboldt. Brinton’s approach was characterized by an effort to integrate the study of linguistic structures with the societal contexts from which they emerged. Brinton’s body of work, extensive through publications such as ‘Myths of the New World’ and ‘The American Race’, demonstrates his commitment to a deep reading of American indigenous languages and cultures, contributing significantly to the fields of ethnography and anthropology. His approach combined rigorous analysis with a broad comparative method, enabling a greater understanding of the diversity and complexity of native cultures throughout the Americas.