What did Americans read in the early decades of the republic?

In the early decades of the American republic, popular reading materials included newspapers, pamphlets, and almanacs, which were crucial for disseminating information and political ideas. The writings of Enlightenment thinkers, such as john Locke and Montesquieu, influenced American thought, while classics from authors like Shakespeare and Milton were also widely read. Additionally, novels began to emerge as a popular form, with authors like Charles Brockden Brown gaining prominence. Religious texts, particularly The Bible, played a significant role in shaping moral and ethical views during this period.