The Liberty Bell

The distinguished historian Gary B. Nash recasts the legacy of one of Americas most enduring icons of freedom Each year, more than two million visitors line up near Philadelphias Independence Hall and wait to gaze upon a flawed mass of metal forged more than two and a half centuries ago. Since its original casting in England in 1751, the Liberty Bell has survived a precarious journey on the road to becoming a symbol of the American identity, and in this masterful work, Gary B. Nash reveals how and why this voiceless bell continues to speak such volumes about our nation. A serious cultural history rooted in detailed research, Nashs book explores the impetus behind the bells creation, as well as its evolutions in meaning through successive generations. With attention to Pennsylvanias Quaker roots, he analyzes the biblical passage from Leviticus that provided the bells inscription and the valiant efforts of Philadelphias unheralded brass founders who attempted to recast the bell after it cracked upon delivery from Londons venerable Whitechapel Foundry. Nash fills in much-needed context surrounding the bells role in announcing the Declaration of Independence and recounts the lesser-known histories of its seven later trips around the nation, when it served as a reminder of Americas indomitable spirit in times of conflict. Drawing upon fascinating primary source documents, Nashs book continues a remarkable dialogue about a symbol of American patriotism second only in importance to the Stars and Stripes.