Book SummaryAn American Princess, by Annejet van der Zijl

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of An American Princess

The narrative of Tew's journey depicts her rise from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of European high society.

Allene's modest beginnings trace back to the frontier community known as Jamestown, located in New York.

Allene played a pivotal role in the founding of Jamestown.

Born on July 7, 1872, Allene Tew was from the modest town of Janesville in Rock County, Wisconsin. Her family moved to the growing town of Jamestown, New York, an area where her ancestors were instrumental in its founding. The Tew family was instrumental in driving the expansion of the town by leveraging the area's natural assets during the Industrial Revolution era. Allene's relative, William Tew, was significantly involved in community initiatives, demonstrating the family's commitment to social issues through his active involvement with the local fire brigade and his support for the Underground Railroad.

Allene grew up in modest surroundings, with her family's home being nothing more than a basic livery stable, and her father occupied a role that lacked distinction.

Allene's family background was one of trailblazers, yet her immediate kin lived with modest means. Charles Tew's father helped him get a job as an assistant cashier at a bank. Allene's upbringing was in a home where they managed a livery stable, indicating she had a relatively comfortable life. Allene's striking golden locks and piercing blue eyes suggested she was destined for an extraordinary life in a time that highly valued humility and modesty.

Allene quickly married into a prosperous...

An American Princess Summary The social, political, and historical context of the time shaped Allene's life.

During the Gilded Age, the United States underwent rapid industrial development and substantial economic expansion.

The rise of a more affluent demographic has accentuated the stratification in American society.

In the late 1800s, America underwent an era of remarkable economic expansion known as the Gilded Age. Allene's lifestyle and perspectives were broadened by the prosperity of the times. Allene's engagement with the family of Tod Hostetter underscored the era's rapid industrial expansion, leading to clear social divisions.

Prominent social groups, often linked with individuals like Caroline Astor, established their reputation on the basis of their lineage and broad acknowledgment. Allene and others who had recently acquired wealth aimed to establish their status in a society characterized by opulence, which was demonstrated through their changed living standards and social customs, including their affiliation with prestigious sailing associations and their presence at exclusive gatherings in the seaside town known for its high-status social gatherings.

During Allene's lifetime, the country underwent a considerable transformation due to advancements in...

An American Princess Summary Allene's life path was significantly shaped by her marriage and familial bonds.

The story explores Allene's personal journey, highlighting her connections with family and her entry into marriage.

Allene's tumultuous first marriage to the heir Tod Hostetter and its tragic end

Allene's passionate but doomed romance involved the rash Tod, who battled a gambling addiction.

Allene's marriage to Tod Hostetter was marked by profound feelings, yet it was inevitably doomed due to his irresponsible nature and inclination towards gambling. His fondness for gambling in card games and other contests contributed significantly to the social challenges they faced. Tod's extravagant way of living, often incurring nearly $100,000 in monthly costs, along with his frequent trips to destinations famous for their gambling opportunities, highlighted the extent of his addiction to gambling. His mother saw Allene as the strong and cheerful anchor her son needed, hoping she would stabilize his irresponsibility. Tod's perpetual restlessness was likewise observed by his acquaintances, corroborating what Allene had noticed about his discomfort.

Allene and her family were deeply impacted by Tod's death.

Allene and her offspring experienced profound impact from the...