3
Vols. 1 and 2. Central America, Vols. 1 and 2.
(From the London Times. Nov. 16, 1883.)
This important and exhaustive work is a monument of diligent research and investigation. This will be apparent when we state that, in the course of his history, Mr Bancroft quotes from upwards of 1,800 authorities, and that these two volumes embrace 1,470 large and closely-printed pages. The subject is a great one, and the record of the Pacific Coast is full of exciting incidents and romantic adventures, which are here told with a fulness that leaves nothing to be desired. A few years ago the author published what may be styled a companion, or introductory work, in "The Native Races of the Pacific States." The latter narrative purported to be a full and careful examination into the character and customs of the aboriginal inhabitants of the western portion of North America at the time they were first seen by their subduers. The new work now before us is a history of the same territory from the coming of the Europeans.
The extensive nature of the plan may be gathered from the fact, that the territory covered embraces the whole of Central America and Mexico, and all Anglo-American domains west of the Rocky Mountains. The first volume deals with a period of only thirty years—viz., from 1501 to 1530. It opens with a very interesting view of European society, and more especially of Spanish civilization at about the close of the 15th century. There is also given a summary of maritime exploration from the 4th century to the year 1540, and this is followed by an account of the great colonizers of the Pacific States. The order of treatment adopted is to proceed geographically from south to north, though in regard to some minor divisions of his work the author has found it convenient to depart from this plan. In regard to all the territorial sub-divisions, southern as well as northern, he treats the beginnings and earliest development more fully than later events; though, after the conquest, the histories of Central America and Mexico are presented on a scale sufficiently comprehensive, but natural rather than local. "The Northern Mexican States, having had a more varied experience, arising from nearer contact with progressional events, receive somewhat more attention in regard to detail than other parts of the Republic. To the Pacific United States is devoted more space, comparatively, than to southern regions, California being regarded as the centre and culminating point of this historical field." There is undoubtedly justice in this view, for the region last indicated is one that is daily assuming greater prominence in the remarkable roll of Western development.
Mr Bancroft ably, and, on the whole, justly indicates the true functions of the historian who essays a work of this magnitude. To an accurate record of events, he gives its due place, this being the foundation of all historical writing; for of what avail is the brilliancy of a Macaulay if the basis of his eloquence be insecure? Yet, of equal importance with events is the institutionary development which they cause accompany. Equal study must be given to men, industries and institutions. "Cause and effect are more essential than mere occurrence; achievements of peace should take precedence of warlike conquest; the condition of the people is a more interesting and profitable subject of investigation than the acts of governors, the valor of generals, or the doctrines of priests. The historian must classify and digest, and teach as well as record; he should not, however, confound his conclusions with the facts upon which they rest." The author appears to have faithfully adhered to the plan he has thus laid down; and, large as the work is, the writing is far from verbose; it is, indeed, condensed in style, and admirable for its vigor and freshness.
