Thomas L. Purvis has a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and a PhD from The Johns Hopkins University. Having taught at the Peabody Conservatory of Music, the University of Georgia, Auburn University, and the College of William and Mary, he now devotes his time to historical research and writing. His books include The Historical Almanac of Revolutionary America 1763-1800 (1995), and Proprietors, Patronage and Paper Money (1986). He contributes to American National Biography as an associate editor.

"It is fascinating, satisfying and richly informed. Each entry is a brilliant piece of American history or biography in ruthlessly summarized form." Contemporary Review "The selection of entries seems judicious and more helpful than that in Martin and Gelber and other similar works; an up-to-date one-volume reference for office and home use." Reference for Books Bulletin "This dictionary will surely become a stand-by for a generation of students, teachers and researchers." Reference Books "Immensely useful to all engaged in the study of the American past. It will save them many hours of frustration in the search for essential but often elusive information." Reference Books

• Preface vii Abbreviations viiiDictionary 1

Thomas L. Purvis has a BA from Washington University in St. Louis and a PhD from The Johns Hopkins University. Having taught at the Peabody Conservatory of Music, the University of Georgia, Auburn University, and the College of William and Mary, he now devotes his time to historical research and writing. His books include The Historical Almanac of Revolutionary America 1763-1800 (1995), and Proprietors, Patronage and Paper Money (1986). He contributes to American National Biography as an associate editor.

"It is fascinating, satisfying and richly informed. Each entry is a brilliant piece of American history or biography in ruthlessly summarized form." Contemporary Review "The selection of entries seems judicious and more helpful than that in Martin and Gelber and other similar works; an up-to-date one-volume reference for office and home use." Reference for Books Bulletin "This dictionary will surely become a stand-by for a generation of students, teachers and researchers." Reference Books "Immensely useful to all engaged in the study of the American past. It will save them many hours of frustration in the search for essential but often elusive information." Reference Books

• Preface vii Abbreviations viiiDictionary 1