Place and Belonging in America

The book delves into the historical and evolving relationship between geography and citizenship in the United States, examining how American identity has been shaped by a moral connection to the land. David Jacobson explores the origins of this connection through various historical lenses, including religious visions, agrarian ideals, and national monuments. He contrasts this with the contemporary landscape, where transnational identities and legal rights challenge traditional notions of territorial identity, leading to a more complex civic engagement and multicultural society.