An Account of the European Settlements in America In Six Parts…

8vo, [8], 324, [8] pp.; [12], 308 pp. With two folding engraved maps by Emanuel Bowen. (8vo) 20x12 cm (7¾x4¾"), period speckled calf ruled in gilt, raised spine bands, later ms. spine labels. Some rubbing and wear to bindings, spine heads chipped, joints cracking, top hinge of volume one weak; moderate darkening to contents, a few instances of marginal worming, a few marginal pencil checks, one ink notation; about very good. Maps in really nice condition. Armorial bookplates of W. Wynne.This is a third edition that contains maps of South America and North America by Emanuel Bowen. Significant history of European expansion into the New World called by Howes the "best contemporary account." While Howes attributes the work to William Burke, his more famous kinsman, Sabin believes the work was in fact written by Edmund Burke. This was a very popular book on the subject, with nine editions published before 1800. There is great detail on the climate, inhabitants, history, and differences of the various European settlements. Excellent information on the Caribbean, including his views and concerns about slavery in that region. Burke seemed fearful of the large number of slaves living in the West Indies compared to Whites. Interesting account of Port Royal, which was devastated by an earthquake in 1692, rebuilt twice, only to be destroyed by fire in 1702 and the most terrible hurricane on record in 1722. Howes B 974. Sabin 928.