FAMOUS AMERICANS

BY

HELEN AINSLIE SMITH

AUTHOR OF GREAT CITIES OF THE MODERN WORLD," GREAT CITIES OF THE ANCIENT WORLD,"
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ANIMALS: WILD AND TAME," BIRDS AND FISHES," ETC., ETC.

REVISED EDITION.

PREFACE.

WIT

ITH more of an historical than a purely biographical purpose, and under a title more typical than literal, ONE HUNDRED FAMOUS AMERICANS aims to present a series of brief and interesting sketches of some of the greatest men and women of America-to group them by the callings in which their most important work has been done, to describe the events of their lives; to tell what they have been to their companions, to their professions, and to the great interests of their nation and the world at large-setting forth from different standpoints their influence upon their own times and the future. The endeavor has been to tell the stories of these great lives fairly and truthfully, omitting for the most part all anecdotes and purely personal matters, while making clear the distinguishing traits of each individual, not only as an individual, but also as a successful follower of his or her vocation. In this way some idea has also been given, it is hoped, of the most notable achievements in the history of the various professions here represented. It is not claimed that this selection forms a perfect list of our greatest men and women: many names having been omitted that rank with those given; but even in the wide difference of opinion existing upon the merits of fame, it is believed that the characters herein. described will be found to be a fair representation of those who have had the strongest influence upon our history. The compiler has been much aided in making the selection by the advice-most generously bestowed-of several authors and professional men of noted judgment. An attempt to bring this subject

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within the compass of one volume must leave very much unsaid; but the object of this book will be met if it gives some sort of connected and graphic account of those who have done great work in or for our country, and if it can present this information in a way that will interest young people and broaden their ideas of life and history. The illustrations have been taken from photographs and historical portraits, models, or the real objects. Thanks are due to Messrs. Harper & Brothers for permission to use the illustrations of Asher Brown Durand and Elias Haskett Derby.

NEW YORK CITY.

HELEN AINSLIE SMITH,