Charles Austin Beard collection, 1911-1976
Collection context
- Creator:
- Beard, Miriam, 1901-1983 and Beard, William
- Extent:
- 3 Linear Feet 7 document boxes
- Language:
- English .
- Scope and content:
-
A significant and sizeable archive of primary materials relating to the career of Charles A. Beard, compiled in the 1970s by Miriam (Beard) Vagts and William Beard. The collection includes more than 300 original letters, manuscripts, and printed material.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Charles Austin Beard (November 27, 1874 – September 1, 1948) was a leading American historian and progressive social thinker during the first half of the 20th century. He was a history professor at Columbia University but resigned in 1917 over what he considered the violation of civil liberties in the removal of pacifist Professors Dana and Cattell. Together with his wife, Mary Ritter, he was involved in the founding the New School for Social Research.
In works such as An Economic Interpretation of the Constitution of the United States (1913) and Economic Origins of Jeffersonian Democracy (1915), he stressed the part played by economic self interest in the development of American institutions and history. With his wife, Mary Ritter Beard, he authored the classic text book, The Rise of American Civilization (1927).
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection is located on site.
- Terms of access:
-
Single photocopies may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.
- Preferred citation:
-
Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Charles Austin Beard Collection; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
- Contact:
- rbml@library.columbia.edu