Meaning: The quote "Here the Frenchman, Spaniard, and Englishman all passed, leaving each his legend; and a brilliant and more or less feudal civilization with its aristocracy and slaves has departed with the economic system upon which it rested" by Hervey Allen, reflects on the historical legacy of different European powers in the Americas and the profound impact of their economic and social systems on the region. Hervey Allen was an American author who wrote extensively about the history and culture of the American South, and this quote captures the complex and layered history of the Americas.

The phrase "Here the Frenchman, Spaniard, and Englishman all passed, leaving each his legend" speaks to the rich tapestry of colonial history in the Americas. From the early explorations and settlements by the French, Spanish, and English, each European power left its mark on the land and its indigenous inhabitants. The encounters between these European colonizers and the indigenous peoples were often marked by conflict, cooperation, and cultural exchange, leading to the formation of new societies and the blending of diverse traditions.

The mention of "feudal civilization with its aristocracy and slaves" alludes to the social and economic structures that were established by the European colonizers in the Americas. The feudal system, with its hierarchical order and land-based wealth, was transplanted to the New World by the Spanish and Portuguese, particularly in regions such as present-day Mexico and Brazil. This system often relied on the exploitation of indigenous labor and the introduction of African slaves, leading to the establishment of a deeply stratified society.

The phrase "has departed with the economic system upon which it rested" suggests the profound transformation that occurred in the Americas with the decline of the colonial economic order. The end of mercantilism and the rise of industrial capitalism in Europe precipitated major shifts in the economic relationships between the Old and New Worlds. The abolition of slavery, the emergence of new forms of labor, and the struggle for independence by various American colonies all contributed to the dismantling of the old feudal order.

In this quote, Hervey Allen captures the multidimensional nature of the colonial experience in the Americas. The arrival of European powers, the clash of cultures, the establishment of new social hierarchies, and the eventual upheaval of the old economic system all left indelible marks on the landscape, the people, and the collective memory of the Americas.

In conclusion, Hervey Allen's quote provides a thought-provoking reflection on the historical legacy of European colonization in the Americas. It invites us to consider the enduring impact of different colonial powers, the complex interplay of cultures and societies, and the profound transformations that have shaped the region. The quote serves as a reminder of the intricate tapestry of history and the ongoing relevance of understanding and grappling with the legacies of the past.