The Ages of American Law

by Grant Gilmore

Distinct periods in legal history are described in reflections on the American approach to law since the eighteenth century related to social change

Genres: Law, History

154 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Ryan McCarthy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came away from reading this with an overwhelming desire to have my last name used to christen an ideology. Unfortunately my last name is McCarthy.

[Steven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short book would be outstanding if its only virtue were Gilmore's Platonically acerbic wit. Fortunately, in addition to his considerable literary flair, Gilmore has wisdom to spare—even, sometimes especially, when he's dead wrong. If you are a lawyer, you should read it. If you are a law student, you should read it. If you have even a passing interest in American law and its history, you should read it, too.

[Isabella Fierro]

First law school book - slay

[Jonathan Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully written, and brief, sketch of the history of American law from 1800 to 1970. The author has some strange ideas, but the book is such a pleasure to read that you swallow them whole without even realizing their oddity. Worth reading by anyone interested in the intellectual history of American law.

[Christie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a little outdated, but it offers a very clear and easily understood breakdown of how American Law has evolved since the 1800s. It is perhaps a little light on details and more for someone looking for a general overview, but a quick and easy read for someone who wants at least a snapshot of how law has changed.

[SallyStenger]

Just picking some books at the library to explore the legal experience. I liked this book pretty well. Another book on jurisprudence. I like it well enough that I would be interested in reading another of his books, namely, the Death of Contract. I believe that Mr. Gilmore was involved in the committee that drafted the UCC. Fairly short (100+ pages)

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a clear, concise narrative on the different phases which the American justice system has experienced since its inception. A terrific primer on which to brush up just before starting law school.

[Nicole · Rating 2 out of 5]

Had to read it for a class. A simple recap of the development of American Law in 110 pages. I wouldn't have read it if I didn't have to, but it could have been a lot worse. I'm also not familiar enough with American legal history to know yet how much of this theory was the writer's opinion.

[Brandon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as good as Gilmore's "The Death of Contract".

[Brent · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dry yet informative.