North Carolina in the 1940s: The Decade of Transformation

This book is the first in a series of small, richly illustrated books about North Carolina history through the decades. It chronicles events in the 1940s, such as the music explosion, the polio pandemic, shipbuilding, hurricanes, floods, and tobacco as the king of the farming and industrial sectors. The author, writer, professor, and musician, Philip Gerard, has published widely and is beloved in North Carolina.

Format: Hardback
Length: 132 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: John F Blair Publisher

This captivating book marks the inaugural installment in a series of delightful, intricately illustrated volumes that delve into the rich tapestry of North Carolina history across the decades. Originally conceived as a series of highly popular serialized articles featured in Our State magazine, this remarkable work chronicles the events that unfolded in North Carolina during the vibrant 1940s—a decade that commenced with the state eagerly preparing for war, coinciding with the passing of the last formerly enslaved individual. Rather than offering a conventional textbook-style overview of the state's history, each chapter of this volume focuses on a lively and illuminating set of events that characterized the era. From the musical explosion surrounding renowned jazz artists John Coltrane and Thelonious Monk in the eastern part of the state to the enchanting sounds of Earl Scruggs and traditional string band music in the west, the book explores a diverse range of captivating topics. Moreover, it delves into the devastating polio pandemic, the bustling shipbuilding industry during wartime, the challenging era of hurricanes and floods, and the pivotal role of tobacco as the reigning king of the farming and industrial sectors.

To enhance the reader's experience, the book is adorned with stunning color vintage photographs and illustrations that vividly bring the historical events to life. Authored by the accomplished writer, professor, and musician Philip Gerard, this work has garnered widespread recognition and adoration within North Carolina, particularly among the loyal readers of Our State magazine. Gerard's extensive literary portfolio includes the iconic novel Cape Fear Rising, which has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. His profound knowledge and passion for the subject matter make this book an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the captivating history of North Carolina.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781949467826