Delaware Colony

Children's Literature

Originally a Dutch settlement, Delaware was destined to become the first state to ratify the American Constitution in 1787. Delaware is relatively small, and was dwarfed by most of the other colonies. However, its proximity to the sea allowed Delaware to become a thriving commercial trading center. A colony that accepted slavery, Delaware was to remain a slave state until 1865. Life in Delaware varied dependent upon one's social standing. Working families struggled to eke out a living either on farmland or as laborers. More wealthy residents of Delaware enjoyed a good life and prospered. Tamara Britton summarizes Delaware's colonial heritage in this illustrated book. The Delaware Colony is part of a larger series entitled "The Colonies." Britton has also penned approximately half of the titles in this series. Her work in this particular book is similar to that of the other books in the series. Britton uses a compact narrative and historical illustrations to tell the tale of early residents of Delaware. Approximately the first half of the book deals with political history of the colony. The final portions of the text describe the daily life in its many forms. This is a competently crafted book but one that will serve more as an introductory and concrete part of any study of this subject. Thus, The Delaware Colony appears most appropriate as either a resource for classroom study or as a quick introductory reader. 2001, ABDO Publishing Company, Romaneck