The History of New York (Knickerbocker's Edition) (ePub)

Washington Irving (1783-1859) stands as a central figure in early American literature, most known for his short stories such as 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' and 'Rip Van Winkle,' but also for his satirical works that captured the culture and humor of his society. Born in New York City, Irving cultivated a keen interest in the art of writing which blossomed into a distinguished literary career. His seminal work, 'The History of New York from the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty' (published under the pseudonym Diedrich Knickerbocker), is a satirical and largely fictionalized account of New York's history. This work not only introduced the Knickerbocker character, which became synonymous with New Yorkers but also laid the foundation for the city's enduring cultural mythology. Irving's literary style often interweaved satire with a Romantic celebration of the American landscape and tradition. Throughout his life, he earned recognition for his versatile command of satire, pathos, and historical narrative. Irving's distinguished status in American literature was further cemented by his appointment as a diplomatic official in Spain, where his experiences would influence subsequent writings. He has been called ambassador-at-large to the world for American culture and the first American author to achieve international fame, signalling the maturation of American literature in the early 19th century.