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Legacy by James Michener
New York:  Random House, 1987

     Written at 80 years of age, Michener's Legacy is the story of the Starrs, a prominent, though fictional, American family from Virginia whose roots go back to the American Revolution.  Each chapter tells the story of another generation beginning with Jared Starr (1726-1787) and his role as a signatory to the Declaration of Independence and as a major in the Revolutionary War.  His son, Simon Starr (1759-1807), supports a strong federal government and represents Virginia during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787.
     Because the book covers the breadth of American history from the Revolutionary War to 1985, it's historical backdrop supports a broad range of US history instructional objectives.  Thus, this review is divided into sections, each of which is specific to the objectives it supports.
     Memories of each generation are resurrected as part of the defense for Major Starr, who in 1985 is called to testify before a Congressional committee in defense of accusations stemming from his role in secret Contra related operations in Nicaragua.  His lawyer, Zack McMaster,  believes that the patriotic contributions of his heroic ancestors will help persuade Congress of his integrity.
     The first three chapters of the book set the stage and chronicle the role of Jared and Simon Starr in the formation of our nation.  In doing so, the novel touches on a number of important historical issues including Shay's Rebellion, Rhode Island's refusal to send delegates to the Constitutional Convention and the struggle for power between the big states like Virginia and New York and the smaller states. 
     The drafting of the Constitution, whose sessions were held in secrecy at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, is seen through the eyes of young Simon Starr who represents Virginia.  Since he is a fictional character, Michener wisely limits his role to late night, behind the scenes conversations with older, more influential delegates.  Michener describes many of the key participants including James Madison, Alexander Hamilton (who couldn't vote because New York failed to produce a quorum of delegates), Gouverneur Morris, Benjamin Franklin and James Wilson.  He also describes the delicate negotiations over controversial issues including slavery and whether or not slaves should be counted for the purpose of either taxation or population.     

Instructional Objectives Supported:

Analyze the Significant Contributions of the Founding Fathers in Creating the Constitution

Know how the Constitution Structured a System of Democracy for the United States

     The chapter on Emily Starr (1858-1932) on pages 93-116 tell the story of a defiant woman who rejected both her family and her suitor in pursuit of justice for women.  In particular, Emily Starr is consumed by her passion for women's suffrage.  While Emily is a fictional character, Michener does include the real contributions of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Stanton to the cause of women's right to vote.  Idaho readers will be interested in Michener's brief reference to William Borah, U.S. Senator from Idaho, who strongly opposed giving women the right to vote.

Instructional Objectives Supported:

Analyze the Struggles for the Extension of Voting Rights to Women

Reading Level:  N/A (Young adult?)
Interest Level:  N/A (Young adult?)

Excerpt

     "Have you ever heard that splendid chain of words invented in Germany not long ago?  Kaiser, Kirche, Kinder, Kuche.  That's what women really want.  Obedience to the ruler.  Faithfulness to the church.  Care of the children.  And supervision of the kitchen and home."
     Emily had hoped to avoid confrontation with her father, but she was so embued with the daring ideas of Kate Kedzie that she simply could not remain silent:  "I think that if our form of government has errors, they must be corrected -"
     "Errors?  And who are you to determine error?"
     "If half the population is denied participation-"
     "Participation?  You women run the home, highest calling in Christendom.  What more do you want?  A soldier's uniform and a gun?"

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