Oddities of Colonial Legislation in America: Public Lands; Primitive Education; Religion; Morals; Indians; Pioneer Settlements

Exploring the eccentric and often surprising foundations of American law, Oddities of Colonial Legislation in America by John B. Dillon uncovers the strange, severe, and sometimes humorous statutes that once governed life in the early colonies. First published in the nineteenth century, this volume examines how religion, morality, education, and frontier necessity shaped the earliest systems of justice and governance across the New World.

Through his meticulous research, Dillon reveals laws addressing everything from public lands and school instruction to religious conformity, Indigenous relations, and moral behavior, exposing a society struggling to balance faith, order, and survival. His commentary, at once scholarly and ironic, highlights the blend of idealism and authoritarianism that characterized colonial rule and the peculiar logic that underpinned its legislation.

Rich in historical detail and social insight, this book remains a fascinating chronicle of early American civilization, offering readers a glimpse into the legal and moral codes that forged the nation’s identity—often as curious as they were earnest.

Complete edition of John B. Dillon’s 19th-century study of early American laws

Explores colonial legislation concerning education, religion, morality, and land

Blends historical scholarship with cultural commentary and wit

Essential for readers of legal history, American colonial studies, and social history