A People's History of the United States: 1492 to Present by Howard Zinn Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of A People's History of the United States: 1492 to Present
Book Review: The Moral Conscience of American History
Summary: 5 Stars
The reason this book is both popular and unpopular is because it is the complete antithesis to the historical myth making prevalent in cultures and societies and necessary for groups and classes within it, who seek to solidify and perpetuate order and privilege. This book is like therapy in the sense that it turns the mirror back onto ourselves. We are all too willing to see the crimes and abuses of other nations and their leaders, but it proves much harder to face the serious national crimes (genocide, slavery, racism, imperialism, sexism, class warfare, child labor, suppression of free and dissident speech) of our own national conscience, especially when it is edited out, passed over or partly told. I found the most powerful part of the book was about US/Indochinese foreign policy and the domestic abuses of the the 1960's under the Johnson and Nixon Administrations. The history in this part of the book eerily paralleled recent history. The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution and the public justifications for continuing the war in Vietnam ('staying the course') read like a playbook for the run up to and subsequent war in Iraq (except Cheney, Rumsfeld learned a lot between their time in the Nixon/Ford Administrations and 2003). Professor Zinn lived a lot of that part of US history and, therefore, I am willing to forgive the lack of footnotes (if it is even necessary to forgive). I think this book is great, because it does so much to fill in a large part of the American story that had been neglected. Also, it is told with conviction and the desire for justice in the telling of that national story. Book Review: real history
Summary: 5 Stars
everyone should have the opportunity to read this history book. a realistic view of history from the winners and loosers. must say does not put humankind in a good light. it opens your mind more.Book Review: One great book...
Summary: 5 Stars
I have learned so much for this book. It's really opened my eyes to our true history. Every American should read it.Book Review: Incredible
Summary: 5 Stars
In the movie, Goodwill Hunting, Matt Damon, critizing Robin Williams' history book told him he (Robin) "you should read The People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn. It will blow your mind." And that's what happened, it blew my mind. What an incredible story told by an idealistic person from the people's point of view. I was completely unaware of a lot of important things that happened in our country. I must admit I was a bit sad after reading the book to think about how our country was run and is being run. If we had honest politicians that really did what was best for the people of our country, the USA would be heaven on earth. Even with it's problems America is still the best place in the world to live, but it could be heaven on earth. A rivetting read. I couldn't put it down.Book Review: A Different History Book
Summary: 5 Stars
The book delivery occured in a few days and in excellent condition. I have no complaints. This is an extremely valuable book for those who want to understand the darker history of the United States and how we got where we are today. It is a difficult read for those who have never ventured outside the usual historical accounts for our country. The content seems to be well researched. The author presents information that will be difficult, if not impossible, for some readers to accept. If you decide to purchase this book, then attempt to read it with an open mind.