Henry William Elson was an American historian and author, known for his contributions to the study of American history. He was born in 1857 and became a prominent figure in the field of education, serving as a professor and later as a school superintendent. Elson's work often focused on making history accessible and engaging for students. Elson is perhaps best known for his book, A History of the United States, published in 1904. This work aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of American history, emphasizing key events and figures. His writing style was clear and straightforward, making it popular among educators and students alike.