The Fallacy of American Inferiority

This chapter examines the debunked 18th-century theory that animals in America were smaller and inferior to those in Europe, extending to humans as well. It explores Thomas Jefferson's refutation of this theory and discusses Alexis de Tocqueville's observations of Native Americans and the impact of European settlers on their civilization. The chapter also highlights the tension between the U.S. and France during this era and explores views on dictatorship in American society.