America was formerly inhabited by numerous tribes of Red Indians,--a
wild, warlike race,--of whom but few now remain, and those not at all
civilized; but the greater number of the white people of America are
the same in their dress, manners, and language, as ourselves.

A large portion of America is called the United States, which is a
Republic; that is, it is governed by the people themselves, without a
king, queen, and a royal family; they appoint a President every four
years. Long ago, the United States belonged to the English, but the
natives gradually grew more powerful than they had been, and threw off
all foreign control.

America produces every kind of grain and fruit, as well as spices,
dye-woods, and balsams. The people export quantities of natural
productions to Europe, but their manufacturers are not as yet able to
compete with those of what are called the _old_ countries. The
principal manufactures are of cotton, woollen, iron, and leather;
which they exchange with the Red Indians for prepared bark, skins, and
birds' feathers. Mines abound, particularly for gold and silver; and
there is abundance of precious stones. The farmers are a very
industrious and intelligent class, and display much taste and neatness
in their management.

The finest timber for ship-building is abundant, and easily obtained;
and there are many excellent harbours. Numerous fishing stations are
situated along the coasts, and are very valuable; for fishing is
there a very good employment, and engages many of the natives of the
Northern States. As these fishermen get accustomed to a sea-faring
life, and inured to fatigue, they soon become excellent sailors, and