The Pursuit of Happiness by Jeffrey Rosen

Ever wonder what the Founders really meant by “the pursuit of happiness”? It wasn’t about comfort or chasing a good time. This thoughtful, absorbing history shows that it meant something richer: virtue, self-mastery, and a lifetime of learning.

The book follows Franklin, Jefferson, Adams, Washington, and others as they turned to the great classical thinkers (Aristotle, Cicero, Seneca, Epicurus, and more) for guidance on how to live well. Written by the president of the National Constitution Center, it blends big ideas with intimate portraits of the people who shaped a nation.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• How ancient philosophy shaped the thinking behind the Declaration of Independence
• The daily habits and reading lives of the Founders
• Why character mattered as much as law in building a republic
• Timeless questions about happiness that still feel surprisingly personal

It’s a wonderful pick for history buffs, curious readers, and anyone who loves a book that makes you pause, look out at the water, and think. Settle in with a cup of tea and linger over these pages on a foggy Ogunquit afternoon.

A fine gift for the thoughtful reader in your life, or a lovely treat for yourself. Browse our curated shelves of American history and biography, and let us help you find your next favorite read.

Note for the editor: I can’t browse the web, so I haven’t included specific review quotes, testimonials, or awards that I couldn’t verify. If you’d like to add a pull quote from a trusted source, it would fit nicely after the first paragraph.