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Imperial Magazine

Published 1819-1834. Monthly. Editor was the Methodist theologian Samuel Drew. Published first in Liverpool, later in London. Subtitle: Monthly record of religious, philosophical, historical, biographical, topographical, and general knowledge, embracing literature, science and art. (Not yet in DNCJ; information from Waterloo Directory; online edition ProQuest British Periodicals.)


“Analysis and Review of a Recent Publication, Entitled "Horae Britannicae, or Studies in Ancient British History.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 5: (May 1819): 465–66.
        Part 1 of Review of John Hughes, Horae Britannicae, or Studies in Ancient British History (1818/1819).
“History, Description, and Newly Discovered Antiquities, of Agricola’s Rampart, Adrian’s Mound, and Severus’s Stone Wall; with Profiles of Each, Drawn to Their Proper Heights and Dimensions; with a Scale of Feet.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 7: (July 1819): 661–64.
        This article examines a newly discovered historical structure dating from the Roman period. Adrian’s Mound (Hadrian’s Wall), Severus’s Wall, and Agricola’s Rampart are examined with great detail to their appearance and dimensions.
“Review--"The History of Dublin," 2.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 9: (September 1819): 811–12.
        Offers the content of each volume of this work and states who wrote each volume and praises the work for its accuracy and useful information.
“Review. ‘Horae Britannicae, or Studies in Ancient British History, Containing Disquisitions on the National and Religious Antiquities of Great Britain.’” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 12: (February 1820): 67–69.
        Part 2 of review of John Hughes’ 1819 book.
“SINGULAR PIECE OF HISTORY.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 12: (February 1820): 61–63.
        This article briefly discusses the life of Richard Plantagenet, by tradition the natural son of Richard III. Events occurring in both men’s lives are discussed.
“Review. Horae Britannicae, Or Studies in Ancient British History.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 13: (March 1820): 149–54.
        Part 3 of review of book by John Hughes.
H., A.“OBSERVATIONS ON THE STUDY OF HISTORY.” Imperial Magazine, 3, no. 29: (July 1821): 591–92.
        An article providing general observations on how to look at history. It is stated that the experience of other states, particularly in politics and government, should be attended to, . Only actions that create beneficial results should be repeated. The author warns, however, that certain actions apply to particular situations, meaning that beneficial results cannot occur from a single action. Also of importance is a knowledge of the history of one’s own country, which leads to understanding of its laws and practices.
“OBSERVATIONS ON THE HISTORY OF THE POTATO.” Imperial Magazine, 3, no. 31: (September 1821): 797–99.
        This article discusses the introduction of the potato to Europe in 1623, and ideal soil conditions for its growth. Also discussed is the potato’s popularity among the peasant class, and its role as a delicacy among the upper classes.
“Anecdote of the Rev. J. Walch (Taken from Mr. Murray’s Literary History of Galloway).” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 44: (September 1822): 829–30.
        This article describes a Protestant clergyman coming under the protection of Louis XIII of France.
“The History and Conversion of the Jewish Boy,.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 44: (September 1822): 865–66.
        The reviewer quickly summarizes this 1822 book, and commends it for its message and usefulness to its readers.
“Brief Sketch of the Life of Thuanus, with Copious Notes to the Dedication of His History of France, &c.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 46: (November 1822): 1059–60.
        Briefly discusses this 1821 book by Josiah Walker, offering excerpts and concluding that it will be useful.
“A SHORT HISTORY OF CATHARINA ALEXOWNA, WIFE OF PETER THE GREAT, EMPEROR OF RUSSIA.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 47: (December 1822): 1191–93.
        This article discusses the humble beginnings and later life of Catharina Alexowna (1691-1727) who married Peter the Great.
“HISTORY OF CLOCKS AND WATCHES.” Imperial Magazine, 5, no. 58: (October 1823): 897–900.
        This article discusses the methods of measuring time, moving from the ancient use of fluids dripping into a vessel (clepsydra or water clocks), to sun dials to watches. The author also raises debate over who invented the first timepiece; he suggests Boethius or Pacificus.
“Sequel to the Grammar of Sacred History, &c.” Imperial Magazine, 6, no. 66: (June 1824): 571.
        Briefly reviews an 1824 work on the church by Mary Ann Rundall. Claims the work is well arranged, contains good information, is well thought out and written with much passion for the subject but may only be considered interesting to those truly interested in the subject at hand.
“The History of the English General Baptists.” Imperial Magazine, 7, no. 78: (June 1825): 555–56.
        Examines Adam Taylor’s work on the Baptists by commending his well-researched, interesting, and unbiased account.
“Self-Advancement, or Extraordinary Transitions from Obscurity to Greatness, Exemplified in the Lives and History of Thirteen Eminent Men.” Imperial Magazine, 7, no. 80: (August 1825): 763–64.
        In purportedly reviewing this collection of biographies, the reviewer merely seems to explain how one comes to be considered worthy of the immortality of having a biography written. The anonymous author is identified as: Author of ‘Practical Wisdom’.
“Essays on Various Subjects of Ecclesiastical History and Antiquity.” Imperial Magazine, 7, no. 82: (October 1825): 941–42.
        Examines James Townley’s collection of essays on the Christian religion and states that although the work can often seem imposing and inconclusive it does shed considerable light on its subject.
“History of Scotland,.” Imperial Magazine, 7, no. 82: (October 1825): 959.
        Very brief discussion of Scottish history books used primarily to teach children in school. States that although these works do lack some information, and could benefit from additions, they suit their purpose sufficiently. Under review: Robert Simpson, History of Scotland, and Oliver Goldsmith. History of Greece, of Rome, and of England, abridged, and the latter continued by the same author.
Robinson, H.“ON THE UTILITY OF HISTORY AND BIOGRAPHY.” Imperial Magazine, 7, no. 83: (November 1825): 1003–4.
        Robinson demonstrates the importance of history, which is its utility in areas such as morals and virtue. Robinson also briefly discusses biography. He states that biography serves a higher purpose than teaching goodness, because it enforces and persuades.
“THE HISTORY OF THE BRITISH CURRENCY, TO 1821.” Imperial Magazine, 7, no. 83: (November 1825): 983–86.
        This article discusses English coins, tracing them back to the first English coin in the time of Ethelbert. Also discussed is the print on the coin, the introduction of new coins caused by the separation of land, and coins introduced by various rulers. The author also mentions the origins of gold and copper coins, along with their value. The coverage is from the thirteenth century to 1821.
“ANALYSIS OF FABER’S CORROBORATION OF THE PENTATEUCH FROM HISTORY, TRADITION, AND MYTHOLOGY.” Imperial Magazine, 8, no. 87: (March 1826): 225–30.
        This article discusses the many aspects of history and mythology according to groups such as the Goths, Hindus and Chinese. Countless interpretations of the creation story, the primitive state (first inhabitants), the serpent story, the redeemer and the giants are incorporated. Also discussed is the scriptural flood and the destruction of Sodom.
“Narrative of a Tour through Hawaii, or Owhyhee; with Remarks on the History, Traditions, Manners, Customs, and Language of the Inhabitants of the Sandwich Islands.” Imperial Magazine, 8, no. 88: (April 1826): 369–73.
        Examines the 1826 work of William Ellis, which focuses on the landscape, inhabitants, and traditions of Hawaii. In describing the content of the work and offering lengthy excerpts the reviewer judges the book to be of great merit and well-known among missionary publications.
“A History of Methodism in the Town and Neighbourhood of Great Yarmouth, &c.” Imperial Magazine, 8, no. 89: (June 1826): 579.
        Examines the 1826 work of A. Watmough on the local history of Methodism in Great Yarmouth. States that this work is narrowly focused on one region and may only be interesting to locals; moreover its sources are scant. Nevertheless its structure for studying local history is very effective and may be useful for others to take notice of.
“A Chronology of Ancient History,.” Imperial Magazine, 8, no. 91: (July 1826): 665–66.
        Offers a brief summary of topics and claims that although Mary Martha Sherwood’s chronological narrative does run into some problems it is overall entertaining and instructive. Full title: Mrs Sherwood. Chronology of Ancient History, illustrated by Parallel Streams of Time; or an Historical and Geographical Account of the various Nations of the Earth, from the Deluge to Birth of Christ. (1826).
A., N.B.“REFLECTION ON THE USE OF HISTORY.” Imperial Magazine, 8, no. 93: (September 1826): 801–5.
        The author states that we must look beyond history and biography to consider the consequences of human action. To overcome this problem, A.N.B. incorporates the stories of characters throughout history where the consequences were not considered; characters such as Brutus, Antony and Octavius, etc.
“The History of the Church of Christ, &c.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 97: (January 1827): 85–88.
        Reviews John Scott’s 1826 continuation of Milner’s Church History, 1533-1546, summarizing content and summarizing the appendix , commenting on the use of sources and writing, and stating that although this work only examines 16 years and needs to be further continued, it is still useful.
“The History of Scotland.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 100: (April 1827): 377.
        Review of Alexander Stewart’s 1826 work on the history of Scotland states that all the essential elements of Scottish history are present without being overdone and this book will prove to be useful to students learning the basics of Scottish history.
“HISTORY OF THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 102: (June 1827): 551–53.
        This article discusses Parliament from its first assembly in England in 1116, with comments on the components of parliament, the duration of a parliament and causes for a parliament to end. The author also includes a chart that shows the duration of each parliament beginning at the time of Henry VIII and ending with George IV.
“Elements of the History of Philosophy and Science,.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 104: (August 1827): 759–60.
        Examines the 1827 work of Thomas Morell, noting the structure of the book, its focus, and the content and usefulness of information. States that this work is very useful for general knowledge of its subject area but lacks in-depth discussion of specific subjects and omits various important areas.
“The History of the Province of Moray.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 104: (August 1827): 753–55.
        Examines the 1827 second edition of Lachlan Shaw’s history of the province of Moray, in Scotland. Looks at the new additions to this edition and commends the work on its further merit in providing a history of this Scottish region. Also briefly discusses the problems faced when writing local history.
“A Chronology of Ancient History,.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 107: (November 1827): 1049–50.
        Examines second (1827) edition of Mary Martha Sherwood’s work centred on ancient history and claims it to be as effective and well laid out as the first edition. Also claims that this work is useful for a foundation of ancient history for scholars and curious youths alike.
“Babylon Destroyed, or the History of the Empire of Assyria, Compiled from Rollin, Prideaux, and Others.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 107: (November 1827): 1055–56.
        Very briefly discusses the content and merit of this 1827 work, which is a compilation from Rollin, Prideaux, and others.
“Stories from the History of Scotland, &c.” Imperial Magazine, 9, no. 107: (November 1827): 1049.
        Discusses Alexander Stewart’s 1827 collection and applauds the author for his efforts in presenting Scottish history in a complete and entertaining manner.
“HISTORIA MONASTERII PETRIBURGENSIS; OR, AN EPITOME OF GUNSTONE’S HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF PETERBOROUGH, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE, WITH AN ENGRAVING.--BY THOMAS ROSE.” Imperial Magazine, 10, no. 112: (April 1828): 331–35.
        This article discusses the history of Peterborough and includes information such as the history of ruling families in that area and the construction of the monastery of Medeshamstead (Peterborough) by these families. Also discussed is the different abbots of the monastery, beginning with Saxulph in 660 A.D.
“Scott’s Continuation of Milner’s Church History.” Imperial Magazine, 10, no. 116: (August 1828): 763.
        Discusses Vol. II, Part 1. (1828) of John Scott’s continuation of Milner’s Church History, stating that although its geographical focus is limited its sources are of much merit that the work is overall very useful and satisfactory.
“Scripture History for Youth.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 124: (April 1829): 371.
        In the reviewer’s view, although this 1828 book by Esther Hewlett does not have much academic value, it is straightforward, entertaining and is a useful addition to any juvenile library.
“Roman History for Youth,.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 127: (July 1829): 663.
        Although it is very brief and sweeps over, or ignores, important events Thomas Rose’s 1829 book, in the reviewer’s eyes, contains useful illustrations and is beneficial to its target audience.
“The History of Initiation, in Three Courses of Lectures, Comprising a Detailed Account of the Rites and Ceremonies, Doctrines and Discipline, of All the Secret and Mysterious Institutions of the Ancient World.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 127: (July 1829): 645–47.
        Discusses in great detail the contents of this 1829 book by George Oliver, offering lengthy excerpts, but states little about its merits.
“History of the Christian Church, from the First to the Nineteenth Century.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 129: (September 1829): 853–54.
        Identifies the subject as a daunting task and states that this 1829 book is interesting, useful, intelligent, and faithful. Anonymous author described as ‘the author of “Reformation”.’
“A Brief History of the Life and Labours of the Rev. T. Charles, A.B., Late of Bala, Merionethshire.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 130: (October 1829): 947.
        The reviewer commends biographer Rev. Thomas Morgan ’s commitment to the primary sources in his 1828 book, not to mention his devotion to the memory of the subject.
“ESSAY ON HISTORY AND THE PROGRESS OF SOCIETY,.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 131: (November 1829): 997–1001.
        This article attempts to discuss humankind in all ages, in all countries, in all situations, and under a variety of circumstances. The author discusses the rise and fall of certain kingdoms and the different states of society. The states of society include one that was ‘rude and uncultivated,’ followed by ‘rude and warlike’ and finally a state of society which began when a powerful people were possessed of mild and competent laws.
“THOUGHTS ON A CONTINUATION OF WHARTON’S HISTORY OF ENGLISH POETRY.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 131: (November 1829): 1013–14.
        The author discusses the progression of literary style in poetry including the use of the lyric.
“Historical Miscellany, or Illustrations of the Most Important Periods in Ancient and Modern History, &c. &c.” Imperial Magazine, 11, no. 132: (December 1829): 1117–18.
        Examines W. C. Taylor’s 1829 work designed for use in schools to teach ancient history. Examines its content and commends its structure and usefulness in aiding learning.
“A Portrait of John the Baptist, or an Illustration of His History and Doctrine.” Imperial Magazine, 12, no. 135: (March 1830): 289–90.
        States this 1830 book by Henry Belfrage is useful as a tool for history and also as a work that promotes moral values.
“Conversations upon Comparative Chronology and General History,.” Imperial Magazine, 12, no. 137: (May 1830): 467–68.
        States that although this 1830 work covering the creation of the world to the birth of Christ is well-written, its question-and-answer style is problematic in presenting a clear history to its targeted youth audience, although it may be entertaining for adult readers.
“THE PRACTICAL USES OF HISTORY.” Imperial Magazine, 12, no. 137: (May 1830): 435–36.
        The author states that moral and intellectual improvement can result from the study of recorded history.
“A Comprehensive Grammar of Sacred Geography and History,.” Imperial Magazine, 12, no. 141: (September 1830): 861.
        States William Pinnock’s book, targeted at educating young students, offers useful information, demonstrates useful illustrations and has a beneficial structure.
“The History and Topography of the United States of North America, from the Earliest Period to the Present Time.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 2: (February 1831): 91–93.
        Mainly discusses what is contained in parts 7 to 12 (1832) of John Howard Hinton’s book , providing a chapter-by-chapter explanation . Notes areas given too much coverage, or not enough, and also offers historical context for the work being examined.
“The History of Chemistry.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 4: (April 1831): 193–94.
        States that Thomas Thomson’s book is well-written, unbiased, and overall well done.
“The History of Chivalry.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 4: (April 1831): 194.
        States that G.P.R. James’s 1830 book is entertaining but is not very useful in academic terms.
“The History of the Bible.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 4: (April 1831): 190–91.
        States that although not much new information is ever expected from a Bible history, this 1831 work by Rev. G. R. Gleig offers a useful account and presents a good argument with solid source material.
“HISTORY OF NAVIGATION.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 5: (May 1831): 226–30.
        This article traces the origins of navigation, going back to the time of Noah. Other examples of navigation, by figures such as the Argonauts, Odysseus the Phoenicians, are among the examples offered.
“The History and Topography of the United States of America, with a Series of Views, Parts 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 6: (June 1831): 284.
        States the work by John Howard Hinton is well illustrated, uses excellent sources, and is an overall excellent addition to previous editions and is well done. This review covers parts 7-12, published 1831.
“The History of the Church of Christ, in Continuation of Milner, &c.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 7: (July 1831): 335–36.
        Examines third volume (1831) of Scott’s continuation of Milner’s history of the church, offering excerpts and insight into the usefulness and relevance of the work’s content.
“The History of the Reformation of Religion in Scotland.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 7: (July 1831): 333–34.
        Discusses the content of William McGavin’s 1831 compilation of Knox’s writings; states that it does an excellent job of immortalizing the work.
“The History and Topography of the United States of North America.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 8: (August 1831): 388.
        This review of parts 13-15, published 1831, mainly focuses on the value and attractiveness of the plates used in John Howard’s work to discuss U.S history and topography.
“The History of the County Palatine of Lancaster.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 8: (August 1831): 383–84.
        Praises the physical elegance of the 1831 book by Edward Baines, the illustrations, and the value and presentation of the information.
“Ecclesiastical History,.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 9: (September 1831): 429–30.
        States that William Jones’s 1831 work will be useful and entertaining to all readers, despite its failure to criticize the sources its proves to be erroneous.
“The History and Topography of the United States of North America,.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 10: (October 1831): 481–82.
        Discussing parts 16-20 of John Howard Hinton’s book, the reviewer regards the information as well-analyzed and unbiased.
“HISTORY OF NAVIGATION.” Imperial Magazine, 1, no. 12: (December 1831): 561–69.
        Continuing from the May 1831 issue, this article discusses the voyages of the Phoenicians. The author also incorporates information on navigators and discoverers, with remarks on Nearchus, Pytheas and Herodotus.
“The History and Topography of the United States of America.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 13: (January 1832): 40.
        This review of parts 21-25 (1831) of John Howard Hinton’s book praises the work for its continued excellence in terms of the illustrated plates and the quality of information. Also notes that the plates in these sections are increasingly well-described , presented in detail and with elegance.
“History of the Jews in All Ages.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 16: (April 1832): 188–89.
        Regards this work as credible, concise, entertaining, and useful. Commends the author for in-depth research and for supplying excellent information while avoiding irrelevant details. Anonymous author of this 1832 work identified as ‘The author of “History of all Ages”.’
“The History and Topography of the United States of North America.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 16: (April 1832): 190–91.
        Parts 26-30 (1832) of John Howard Hinton’s book, like those before them, are reviewed as useful, interesting and well illustrated.
“The History and Prospects of the Church,.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 17: (May 1832): 236–37.
        Observes that although this book by James Bennett is not very profound (despite dating ’from the Creation to the Consummation of all things’) it can be useful as a general historical text.
“Church History through All Ages, from the First Promise of a Saviour,.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 18: (June 1832): 289–90.
        Describes this 1832 work by Thomas Timpson as diverse, valuable, and a well-made compilation of information. Also offers a summary of content and excerpts.
“Exeter Hall Exhibition of Paintings, Illustrative of Sacred History [by Ancient Masters].” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 18: (June 1832): 285.
        Critiques the art exhibit at Exeter Hall, with comments on several individual works; regards the exhibit as well-done and entertaining.
“The History and Topography of the United States of North America,.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 19: (July 1832): 330.
        Parts 31-40 (1832) of John Howard Hinton’s work continue to display attention to detail and contain excellent illustrations as well as intelligent and useful information.
“History of the Seven Churches of Asia,.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 20: (August 1832): 382–83.
        Judges this 1832 work by the Rev. T. Milner to be one of the most useful and interesting books on the topic, which is ‘designed to show the fulfilment of Prophecy.’
“A Companion and Key to the History of England--Genealogical Details of British Sovereigns, Alliances, Families, Titles, Armorial Bearings, Charts, &c. &c.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 21: (September 1832): 430–31.
        Although this 1832 book by George Fisher lacks proper references (which brings its validity into question), the reviewer notes that it is full of useful information and will be of use to many generations to come.
“History and Character of American Revivals of Religion.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 21: (September 1832): 428–29.
        The review presents a summary of the content and theories found in this 1832 book by the Rev Calvin Colton.
“The History of Charlemagne;” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 22: (October 1832): 485.
        The review offers a brief overview of Charlemagne and his accomplishments and states that G. P. R. James’s 1832 book is a good biography which also offers useful contextual material on French history.
“The Record of Providence; or, the Government of God Displayed in a Series of Interesting Facts from Sacred and Profane History.” Imperial Magazine, 2, no. 24: (December 1832): 580–81.
        Regards this 1832 book by the Rev. J. Young, the first on its subject, as well-organized, well-sourced, and interesting. States that it will be useful to readers of all ages.
“A Biographical History of the Wesley Family, More Particularly Its Earlier Branches.” Imperial Magazine, 3, no. 29: (May 1833): 246.
        John Dove’s 1833 study is judged well done in that it is well-arranged, moderately priced and of overall utility.
“The History of Dissenters from the Revolution to the Year 1808.” Imperial Magazine, 3, no. 32: (August 1833): 371–75.
        The review of this 1833 second edition of David Bogue’s and James Bennet’s book offers a detailed historical context for the work as well as a lengthy summary of the content, including excerpts.
“A Popular History of Priestcraft in All Ages and Nations.” Imperial Magazine, 3, no. 33: (September 1833): 430–31.
        The review states that William Howitt’s 1833 book is very controversial; it must be read by people of all religious beliefs.
“Edinburgh Cabinet Library; History of Arabia, Ancient and Modern, &c. &c.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 38: (February 1834): 94–96.
        Review ends with a recommendation, but mainly consists of a summary of Andrew Crichton’s 1833 work, including many excerpts.
“The History of Switzerland, from Its Earliest Origin to the Present Time; a Popular Description and Faithful Picture of the Gradual Rise and Progress of the French Nation.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 40: (April 1834): 183–84.
        Reviewer states that this book by Heinrich Zschokke (1834) is a comprehensive, complete, instructive, and entertaining history and that it is translated well. It is thus highly recommended to readers of all ages.
“Colonel Napier’s History of the War in the Peninsula.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 44: (August 1834): 369–72.
        The reviewer finds Napier’s work (1834) to be well-written, well-sourced, and unbiased. The reviewer then offers a detailed account of the contents.
“Evening Readings in History;” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 45: (September 1834): 436.
        States that this 1834 work by Lydia Howard Sigourney is surprisingly well done considering the author’s gender; notes that it is plain and carefully and pleasingly narrated. Reviewer believes it will be beneficial to the school children it is written to educate. Subtitle of the book: Comprising portions of the History of Assyria, Egypt, Tyre, Syria, Persia, and the Sacred Scriptures; with Questions, arranged for the use of Family Circles.
“Historia Technica Anglicanoe: A Systematic Arrangement of the Leading Events in English History, from the Earliest Notices of the Country to the Present Time: With an Original System of Mnemonics.” Imperial Magazine, 4, no. 48: (December 1834): 564–66.
        Reviewer states that the book by Thomas Rose is a well-done history and applauds its attempt at using Mnemonics as a style of learning.