A History of New York from the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty

Set in 1809, this work features Washington Irving, recognized as the Father of the American Short Story, who crafted a satire under the pseudonym Diedrich Knickerbocker. Presented as a scholarly account of the Dutch occupation of the New World, it serves as both a burlesque of historical narratives and a sharp critique of contemporary politics. Celebrated as the first significant work of comic literature by an American, it highlights Irving's unique literary contributions.