Letters from the Promised Land
H. Arnold Barton, editor
Swedish immigrants tell their own stories in this collection of letters, diaries, and memoirs – a perfect book for those interested in history, immigration, or just the daily lives of early Swedish-American settlers.
“Barton has fulfilled his great task with an admirable knowledge, breadth of perspective, talent, and prudence. He deserves the title “Swedish American of the Year,” awarded to him in his ancestors’ country in 1988.” American Historical Review
“Open the volume anywhere and we touch life quickened as only the immigrant experience could quicken it.” Western Historical Review
“To be sure, this is not the typical book on American immigration history – it is that and more . . . it is seminal and ‘alive’ history. It is the people as history and historians. It is special.” Manuscripta
“An often moving, always fascinating picture of the daily lives, hopes, ideals, and aspirations of men and women from the country that in absolute numbers ranks seventh among countries of origin for immigrants to the United States.” Choice