The Communistic Societies of the United States

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Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Communistic Societies of the United States

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Charles Nordhoff's 1875 study examines major 19th-century utopian communities in the USA, including the Shakers, Amana Colony, and the Icarians. Nordhoff analyzes their social customs, business methods, and religious creeds, arguing that these societies offer a viable path to independence for laborers beyond the limitations of wage slavery and restrictive trade unions.

Summary up to 500 words

In *The Communistic Societies of the United States*, Charles Nordhoff presents a comprehensive survey of American utopian experiments, arguing that cooperative living offers a vital alternative to the prevailing system of wage labor. Nordhoff contends that the hope of achieving independence through land ownership or communal effort is essential for the moral and political health of the nation. He warns that trade unions, by teaching permanent dependence on capital, degrade the character of the working class and foster a spirit of discontent that threatens the stability of free government. Instead, he points to successful communistic societies as proof that non-capitalists can achieve prosperity through collective effort. Nordhoff details the history, organization, and daily life of various groups, including the Shakers, known for their celibacy, communal living, and distinctive hymns that blend energetic dance with devotional piety. He also examines the Harmony Society at Economy, Pennsylvania, founded by George Rapp, which accumulated significant wealth through disciplined manufacturing and agriculture. The text describes the Inspirationists at Amana, Iowa, who maintained a German-speaking community with a rich tradition of spiritual songs and strict adherence to their founder's rules. Other groups examined include the Perfectionists at Oneida, the Aurora and Bethel communes, and the Icarians near Corning, Iowa, who followed the ideals of Etienne Cabet. Despite starting with limited means, these societies often developed remarkable business acumen, accumulated considerable wealth, and provided security for their members' old age. Nordhoff observes that some communities have survived for decades or even eighty years after the death of their founders. The book includes extensive excerpts from the hymns, rules, and internal documents of these groups, offering readers a direct glimpse into their spiritual and practical lives. Nordhoff concludes that while not every commune succeeded, their existence proves that independence is attainable through cooperation, offering a hopeful alternative to the industrializing world of the 19th century.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Politics
• Sociology