Richard Frothingham

author

Richard Frothingham

1812–1880

A nineteenth-century New England historian with a journalist’s eye, he is best remembered for vivid books on the American Revolution and the story of early Boston. His work grew out of a life spent in public affairs, from newspaper offices to local government in Massachusetts.

1 Audiobook

About the author

Born in Charlestown, Massachusetts, in 1812, Richard Frothingham Jr. built a career that crossed journalism, politics, and history. He was connected with The Boston Post for many years, serving as a proprietor and later managing editor, and he also served in the Massachusetts legislature and as mayor of Charlestown.

As an author, he focused on the history of New England and the American founding era. He wrote works including History of the Siege of Boston and The Rise of the Republic of the United States, books that helped preserve local memories of the Revolution while telling a broader national story.

That mix of reporter, civic leader, and historian gives his writing a grounded feel. Even when covering major events, he stayed close to places, documents, and people, which makes his books especially appealing to listeners interested in early American history.