Best known for his short stories, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip van Winkle, Washington Irving was a prolific essayist, biographer, and historian, as well as a member of the American diplomatic staff. The three volumes of his Journals provide detailed accounts of Irving's travels, experiences, and observations, creating an enlightening backdrop to both his literary and historical works. Noteworthy for his descriptions of his travels in Europe, of particular interest is Irving's perspective on 19th century American culture and politics, including his beloved New York, as well as his commentary on the treatment of Native Americans and their culture. vol. 1 of 3