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The Coming of the White Men: Stories of How Our Country Was Discovered cover

The Coming of the White Men: Stories of How Our Country Was Discovered

Chapter 1: PREFACE
By Mary Hazelton Blanchard Wade
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About This Book

The collection presents illustrated, child-friendly historical narratives that recount early European voyages and the gradual opening of the continent, scenes of first encounters with indigenous peoples, coastal and inland exploration, and the establishment of settlements and colonies. Individual chapters dramatize episodes such as daring sailors, attempts to discover legendary springs, river and coastal expeditions, religious refuge and colonial governance, and everyday life in early settlements. A kindly elderly storyteller frames the material, aiming to introduce young readers to the people, travels, and challenges that preceded later national development.

PREFACE

The true American is happy in the thought that his country is a great and glorious one. He can say with his heart as well as his lips, "This is the land of the Free and the home of the Brave."

Those who journey far from their native land and find themselves in foreign countries tell us how they are stirred and thrilled when by any chance the stars and stripes of the American flag meet their view. These stars and stripes stand for the struggles for freedom, the brave deeds in the cause of right and justice, the heroism of those who have laid down their lives that their country should still live, and the brother-love that binds together all the men, women, and children who can say, "I am an American!"

It is only right that the boys and girls of America, as soon as they are able to understand, should hear the stories of those who took the first steps toward the building of this nation—those who risked life and fortune and who were willing to face unknown dangers for the sake of freedom.

If these boys and girls of America are to grow up with the earnest desire of keeping the sacred trust that must descend to them; if they are to keep this country the land of the free and the home of the brave; if their aspirations and ideals shall be of the highest and the purest, so that the powers and privileges of America shall increase rather than diminish with the coming years, then let the plant of patriotism take root early in their hearts that it may grow with their growth and blossom in perfect fullness with their maturer years.