The University of Oklahoma: A History, Volume II: 1917-1950

In 1917, the University of Oklahoma was a small, close-knit community, but it underwent changes so profound that their cumulative effect amounted to a transformation. Volume 2 of David Levys projected three-part history chronicles these changes, charting the Universitys course through one of the most dramatic periods in American history. By 1950, enrollment had increased fivefold, and the University was on its way to becoming a world-class educational institution. Levy weaves together human and institutional history to describe the schools remarkable development in response to unprecedented factors such as two world wars, the cultural shifts of the 1920s, the Great Depression, the rise of the petroleum industry, the farm crisis and Dust Bowl, the emergence of new technologies, and new political and social forces.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press

In 1917, the University of Oklahoma's annual catalogue still proudly showcased the names and hometowns of every student. Nestled within a compact and close-knit community of 2,500 students and 130 professors, the university operated as a respectable regional institution, offering a modest yet comprehensive education. Over the ensuing three-quarters of a century, the school underwent profound transformations that collectively amounted to a remarkable transformation. This second volume in David Levy's projected three-part history chronicles these changes, charting the University's journey through one of the most dramatic periods in American history.

Following Oklahoma's flagship school through decades that witnessed six U.S. presidents, eleven state governors, and five university presidents, Volume 2 of The University of Oklahoma: A History documents the institution's evolution into a complex, diverse, and multifaceted seat of learning. By 1950, enrollment had soared fivefold, marking a pivotal milestone in the University's journey. Every metric—the number of colleges and campus buildings, degrees awarded, programs offered, library volumes, faculty publications, out-of-state and foreign students in attendance—indicated the University's steady ascent toward becoming a world-class educational institution.

Levy skillfully weaves together human and institutional history, providing a vivid account of the school's remarkable—sometimes remarkably difficult—development in response to unprecedented factors. These factors include two world wars, the cultural shifts of the 1920s, the Great Depression, the rise of the petroleum industry, the farm crisis and Dust Bowl, the emergence of new technologies, and new political and social forces, such as those promoting and resisting racial justice.

National and world events, state politics, campus leadership, and the ever-changing student body all played pivotal roles in shaping the University's trajectory. The University's commitment to academic excellence, its ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and its unwavering dedication to its students and community have been the driving forces behind its remarkable journey.

As we delve into the pages of Volume 2, we witness the University's evolution from a small, insular institution to a vibrant and dynamic center of learning, contributing significantly to the intellectual and cultural landscape of Oklahoma and beyond. The University of Oklahoma's story is a testament to the power of education, resilience, and the enduring spirit of innovation.

Weight: 333g
Dimension: 254 x 178 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780806190006