Seba Smith's 'Letters of Major Jack Downing, of the Downingville Militia' is a humorous and satirical collection of letters written by the fictional character Major Jack Downing. The book is written in the form of letters that reflect on various political and societal issues of the time, offering a unique insight into the early 19th-century American political landscape. Smith's witty and irreverent style adds a layer of humor that makes the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. This work is a prime example of early American humor literature, and its significance in the literary canon cannot be overstated. It serves as a window into the social and political climate of the time, highlighting the use of satire as a tool for commentary and criticism. Seba Smith's background as a humorist and journalist likely influenced the creation of Major Jack Downing, making the character and his letters resonate with readers on multiple levels. 'Letters of Major Jack Downing, of the Downingville Militia' is a must-read for anyone interested in early American literature, political satire, or the development of humor in literature.