Popularizing the Past: Historians, Publishers, and Readers in Postwar America

Popularizing the Past is a book that tells the stories of five postwar historians who changed the way ordinary Americans thought about their nation's history by publishing widely read books of national history. It argues that historians' efforts to engage with the reading public are a vital part of their postwar identity and mission and that the publishing industry and a reading public hungry to engage with the cutting-edge ideas then emerging from American universities were essential to their success.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Popularizing the Past is a groundbreaking book that delves into the captivating stories of five postwar historians who revolutionized the way ordinary Americans perceived their nation's history. These historians, namely Richard Hofstadter, Daniel Boorstin, John Hope Franklin, Howard Zinn, and Gerda Lerner, emerged as influential figures in the decades following World War II. Through their widely read books, they sought to bridge the gap between academic discourse and the general public, challenging the notion that historians were solely focused on writing for fellow scholars.

In his compelling narrative, Nick Witham argues that we should view historians' engagement with the reading public as an integral part of their postwar identity and mission. He meticulously explores how the lives and writings of these five authors were profoundly shaped by their unwavering desire to create histories that would captivate both scholars and the elusive general reader. Witham reveals the intricate interplay between these historians and the publishing industry, which played a crucial role in disseminating their ideas to a wider audience.

Furthermore, Popularizing the Past sheds light on the hunger of the reading public to engage with the cutting-edge ideas emerging from American universities. These historians, armed with their intellectual prowess and a deep understanding of history, sought to engage the public in meaningful conversations about the past. Their efforts not only enriched the scholarly community but also contributed to a broader understanding of American history and its relevance to contemporary society.

In conclusion, Popularizing the Past is a must-read for anyone interested in history, academia, and the power of storytelling. By examining the lives and works of these five historians, Witham provides a profound insight into the postwar effort to popularize the past. This book not only sheds light on the contributions of these remarkable individuals but also highlights the importance of engaging with the reading public to broaden the reach and impact of historical scholarship.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226826998