An analysis of the lesser-known contributions of pragmatic conservatives who worked diligently throughout the American Revolution to combat radicalism and establish key economic foundations also offers insight into the political disagreements among the nation's founding fathers that threatened to divide the fledgling nation. -- Provided by publisher. A financial crash and an endless economic crisis. A Congress so divided it barely functioned. Welcome to the world of the Founding Fathers. The Revolution was nearly derailed by extremists who wanted to do too much, too quickly and who refused to rest until they had remade American society. If not for a small circle of conservatives who kept radicalism in check and promoted capitalism, a strong military, and the preservation of tradition, our country would be vastly different today.

Donated by John M. McCaffrey.

Introduction -- Court and country -- None shall make them afraid -- The rise of radicalism -- The view from above -- Delicacy and caution -- The olive branch and the lightning bolt -- Patriotism and profit -- Yielding to the torrent -- The crucible of conservatism -- The philosopher in action -- On the brink of a precipice -- Cool and do mischief -- The turning point -- The playwright and the merchant -- The seed time of glory -- The ruin of Mr. Deane -- Fort Wilson -- American dictators -- Power, consequence, and grandeur -- The pause that saved the revolution -- Our American tumults -- Capitalist inducements -- Experience must be our guide -- We the people -- Epilogue.