The Works of William Robertson to which is prefixed an account of the life and writings of the Author by Dugald Stewart

William Robertson (1721-1793)

Published by Printed for T Cadell, London, 1840

About this Item

8 volumes. Volumes 1 & 2: History of Scotland: xxxii+427 pages with frontispiece of Roberston; 479 pages with appendix and index. Volumes 3, 4 & 5: History of Charles V: viii+402 pages; 456 pages; 420 pages with index. VOLUMES 6, 7 & 8: History of America: xxviii+452 pages with two fold-out maps at back; 469 pages with folding plate and two fold-out maps at back; 448 pages with two fold-out maps at rear and indices. Octavo (8 1/2" x 5 1/4") bound in original publisher's full tan calf with gilt decoration to spine with black labels in gilt lettering and ruled edges in gilt to covers. Marbled end-papers and page edges. Five raised spine bands and ribbon place markers. Eleventh edition. William Robertson was a Scottish historian, minister in the Church of Scotland, and Principal of the University of Edinburgh. The thirty years during which he presided over the University perhaps represent the highest point in its history. He made significant contributions to the writing of Scottish history and the history of Spain and Spanish America. One of his most notable works is his History of Scotland 1542 1603, begun in 1753 and first published in 1759. Robertson also contributed o the history of Spain and Spanish America in his History of America (1777), "the first sustained attempt to describe the discovery, conquest and settlement of Spanish America since Herrera's Décadas and his biography of Charles V. In that work he had "provided a masterly survey of the progress of European society, in which he traced the erosion of the 'feudal system' caused by the rise of free towns, the revival of learning and Roman law, and by the emergence of royal authority and the balance of power between states. It was the development of commerce, assisted by law and private property, which was held to be chiefly responsible for the advance in civilization." (Wikipedia). Condition: spine ends chipped, some labels to spine lacking, inner hinges cracked and separated at front of volume 8. some light foxing else good to very good. Additional post may be required for this item. Seller Inventory # H0180

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Works of William Robertson to which is ...

Publisher: Printed for T Cadell, London

Publication Date: 1840

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Good