"Founding Brothers" is an intriguing book that takes its readers through an in-depth view of many issues that defined American society. It compiles a couple factual accounts of several important incidents that took place during the 1790s, and each dealt with essential aspects of American politics. It is important to note, however, that all of these accounts aren't just retold by Ellis; he views each separate event in retrospect and examines the directions each steered American thought and society. Ultimately, the changes these accounts brought to American domestic and foreign policies would clearly shape America's grand vision of an equal and a free nation.

The fatal duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton at last ended any remnants of the dying feudal age that originated in Europe. Perhaps the most famous duel in all of American history, Ellis tackles on a different view and provides two possibilities of...