The Communistic Societies of the United States

The book The Communistic Societies of the United States by Charles Nordhoff represents a significant contribution to the sociology of communes and utopian communities in the United States during the 19th century.

In this work, Nordhoff provides a detailed account of his visits and observations of various communal societies, including the Shakers, the Amana Colony, the Perfectionists, the Icarians, and several others. He sought to understand their social structures, economic systems, religious beliefs, and daily lives.

Nordhoff's book is valuable for historians, sociologists, and anyone interested in the history of communal living experiments in the United States. It offers valuable insights into the motivations and challenges faced by these communities and provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse range of utopian and communal movements that emerged during the 19th century.