General history regards architecture, metallurgy, all manner of construction and fabrication, as facts in themselves useful and important, contributing to the strength of nations; but a true study of the human race regards all art products as but an evidence and illustration of the character, the skill and purpose of those by whom they were designed. In like manner government and laws...are objective products of the genius of man. But they are also illustrations of the character, sentiment, hope, and ambitions of the race.
— JOHN CLARK RIDPATH