Synopsis
Introduces this state nicknamed "The Garden State," including its geography, history, government, famous people, and places.
Greg M. Romaneck - Children's Literature
Few states have a more complicated story to tell than that of New Jersey. From its establishment in the 17th century as a colony, New Jersey was a study in contradictions. New Jersey maintained one of the highest rates of slave owning in the land. Conversely, New Jersey was a state that afforded voting rights to both women and free blacks until the early 19th century. During the Revolutionary War, New Jersey's men volunteered at a high rate to serve in the Continental Army. On the other hand, a significant number of New Jersey residents were Tories, loyal to King George. New Jersey was the scene of some of the harshest fighting of the Revolution in a conflict that literally pitted brother against brother in that divided state. The fascinating story of colonial New Jersey is capably presented in this illustrated book that is a part of the "Life in the Thirteen Colonies" series. Readers will encounter the events and citizens who helped shape the past and future of this proud state. 2004, Children's Press, Ages 10 to 14.