A Character of the Province of Maryland by George Alsop

Description

A Character of the Province of Maryland by George Alsop is a historical account written in the mid-17th century. The book provides a detailed description of the Mary-Land province, including its geography, government, and customs of its inhabitants. Alsop’s work is particularly notable for its exploration of the lives of both the settlers and the indigenous Susquehannock Indians, offering insights into their culture, practices, and the overall environment of early colonial America. The opening of this tract sets the stage for Alsop’s exploration of Maryland, describing its lush geography and the various plants and animals that inhabit the region. The author conveys a sense of abundance and opportunity in Maryland, detailing the political structure and social dynamics among its residents, while also addressing the issues of servitude and the treatment of laborers in the province. He flows from vivid descriptions of the land to commentary on the people’s characters and lifestyles, without shying away from discussing the contradictions inherent in colonial life. The beginning suggests that Alsop aims to promote emigration to Maryland, painting a flattering picture intended to draw in new settlers. (This is an automatically generated summary.)