Society and economy in colonial Connecticut /

Using selected 17th- and 18th-century probate records and tax lists of Connecticut communities, Main has produced a useful compendium of statistical information on groups within this social structure. Although colonial Connecticut experienced several economic cycles, the colony enjoyed a high degree of economic and social stability. There were patterns of moderate increase in wealth and in equality of opportunity as well. Exodus of surplus population, rising land values, increase in the number of towns, an adequate division of labor, and a stake in society by most permanent residents contributed to stability. The book principally measures the standard of living, wealth, and status of those who constituted the society: laborers, farmers, craftsmen, professionals, and traders. A chapter on leaders confirms the essential openness of society. Some findings are unexpectedly revealing. Because of sources used and to afford some limitations on the scope of the study, family life per se and the role of women are avoided. Footnotes are sparse, but there are 63 tables, 51 appendixes, 2 graphs, and a brief bibliographical essay. An important work on Connecticut's social structure and economic development. College and university libraries.-H.M. Ward, University of Richmond