The Year of Decision 1846 by Bernard DeVoto Value Guide

Bernard DeVoto's 'The Year of Decision 1846' is a cornerstone of American historiography that chronicles the Mexican-American War and the Oregon Trail. Published in 1943, this Pulitzer Prize-winning author's work is highly collectible for its vivid narrative style and its profound impact on how the public understands the shaping of the American West.

What Is The Year of Decision 1846 by Bernard DeVoto Worth?

The typical price range for The Year of Decision 1846 by Bernard DeVoto is $25 - $30 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and condition of the original 1943 dust jacket significantly impacts the $25-$30 price range.
• Overall physical condition, including the absence of 'foxing' on the paper and minimal wear to the cloth binding.
• Provenance or signatures, as copies signed by DeVoto can command a premium over the standard market value.
• The tightness of the binding and the lack of library stamps or previous owner inscriptions.

How to Identify The Year of Decision 1846 by Bernard DeVoto?

• Verify the 1943 publication date on the title page and copyright page to ensure first edition status.
• Check for the original cloth binding, which was standard for the United States release by Little, Brown and Company.
• Look for the presence of the original dust jacket, which features period-appropriate typography and design.
• Confirm the author's name, Bernard DeVoto, is clearly printed on the spine and front cover.

History of The Year of Decision 1846 by Bernard DeVoto

Bernard DeVoto's 'The Year of Decision 1846' chronicles a pivotal period in American history, focusing on the westward expansion, the Mexican-American War, and the Oregon Trail. Published in 1943, it brought to life the diverse experiences of pioneers, soldiers, and politicians, painting a vivid picture of a nation grappling with its identity and destiny. DeVoto, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian, was known for his engaging narrative style, making complex historical events accessible and exciting to a broad audience. This book remains a significant work for understanding the forces that shaped the American West.