An Empire of Regions is a refreshing interpretation of British American history that demonstrates how the thirteen British mainland colonies grew to function as self-governing entities in distinct regional clusters. In lucid prose, Eric Nellis invites readers to explore the circumstances leading to the colonies' collective defense of their individual interests, and to reevaluate the founding principles of the United States. There is considerable discussion of social conditions and of the British background to the colonies' development. Extensive treatment of slavery, the slave trade, and native populations is provided, while detailed maps illustrate colony boundaries, settlement growth, and the impact of the Proclamation Line. This absorbing and compelling narrative will captivate both newcomers to and enthusiasts of American history.

Eric Nellis is Associate Professor Emeritus at the University of British Columbia. He is author of The Eighteenth-Century Records of the Boston Overseers of the Poor (CSM/University Press of Virginia) and The Long Road to Change: America`s Revolution, 1750-1820 (University of Toronto Press Higher Education, 2007).

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