Beginning with a description of Gothic, Classical, and Baroque architecture, Pierson explores how American architects used these traditions to develop a uniquely American style. He examines the works of the early masters, including Bulfinch's Massachusetts State House, Latrobe's Capitol Building in Washington, Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Mills's buildings in South Carolina, as well as Thomas Jefferson's house in Monticello, which represents the clearest expression of the new American architectural vision.