The Settlers' Empire: Colonialism and State Formation in America's Old Northwest

In the aftermath of the Revolutionary War, the United States faced the monumental task of establishing order and governance in the vast territories of the Old Northwest. Bethel Saler meticulously explores the complex interplay between colonial ambitions and state formation in this pivotal region. Through a detailed examination of the period following the 1783 Treaty of Paris, Saler delves into how settlers, indigenous populations, and government policies all contributed to the shaping of a new American identity.

This work reveals the tensions that underpinned colonial endeavors, highlighting the struggles for power and legitimacy between diverse groups. Saler scrutinizes the motivations driving settlers to move westward and how their aspirations conflicted with the rights and traditions of indigenous peoples. The process of state formation becomes a tapestry woven with personal stories, economic aspirations, and political maneuvers.

Saler's narrative is rich with historical detail, allowing readers to grasp the broader implications of colonialism beyond mere expansion. The examination of governmental frameworks and treaties provides insight into how the fledgling nation grappled with issues of sovereignty and the rule of law amidst a rapidly changing landscape.

Ultimately, Saler's work serves as a poignant reminder of the legacies of colonialism that resonate into the present. By dissecting the early struggles for control and governance over new territories, readers come to understand the complexities that shaped not only the Old Northwest but also the evolution of the United States itself.