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For Want of a Nail

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description For Want of a Nail Overview

For Want of a Nail is a 1973 alternate history novel written by American author Robert Sobel. The book is structured entirely as a non-fiction academic textbook, complete with historical tables, footnotes, and a bibliography. It details the history of two divergent North American nations from the point where the American Revolution fails through the mid-20th century. This unique format appeals to history enthusiasts and readers interested in speculative fiction that strictly adheres to realistic historical analysis.

help For Want of a Nail FAQ

What is the book For Want of a Nail by Robert Sobel about?

For Want of a Nail is a landmark alternate history book written by Robert Sobel in 1973. It details a world where the American Revolution failed after the British defeat the colonists at Saratoga.

How is For Want of a Nail formatted differently than normal novels?

Instead of a standard narrative novel, the 1973 book is written entirely as a non-fiction academic text. It contains textbook-style chapters, extensive footnotes, and a massive bibliography to ground its alternate timeline in realism.

What countries exist in For Want of a Nail?

In the book's alternate timeline, the North American continent is divided into two main nations: the United States of Mexico and the Confederation of North America. The book traces their political and economic rivalry over centuries.

Is For Want of a Nail a well-known alternate history book?

Yes, it is widely considered a masterpiece and a foundational text within the alternate history genre. Despite its cult status, its textbook format makes it highly distinct from traditional historical fiction.

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