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: A New Direction
Summary: 4 Stars
Zinn's History provides some much needed perspective from minority groups throughout America's history, starting, of course, in 1492 with Columbus. The book provides interesting new interpretations of historical events and backs them up with a variety of source material. Zinn's prose is clear, poignant, and unabashed in addressing the grievances of a great many groups of people. For those who have only heard the victor's version of American history, this book will provide a sobering look at many of the issues that have been glossed over in the past.
On the downside, however, the book errs too far into a radical revision of history without really evaluating even a centrist perspective on past events. Zinn also seems to take particular glee in giving a truly punishing perspective on Republican party Presidents and activities while giving very brief attention to the controversy of Democrats. There is an incredibly small amount of information about FDR's presidency, which is astonishing given that he served longer than any other US President. At times, the book has the feel of a Michael Moore film: liberal propaganda meant to counterbalance conservative propaganda.
Of course, the book begins with an acknowledged bias, and this acknowledgment alone gives it a great deal more credibility. This is not an attempt to create an impartial, if different, history; rather, it is Zinn's attempt to call the middle and lower classes to "arms" against the oppressive doctrines that have been enacted on them. Zinn's main purpose in providing this history is to spur you into believing that less than 1% of people controlling 90% of the wealth is not good enough, and is not something we should settle for as a society.
Whether you are liberal or conservative, this book will provide an intriguing perspective about the many aspects of dominance and oppression in America's past; if you can tolerate the obvious bias, it is a fascinating read.
Book Review: A People's History
Summary: 5 Stars
Without a doubt, the best political book I've ever read in my life. Howard Zinn tells the history of the United and at times Divided States of America unlike any teacher has. Zinn cuts to the core about the historical facts that matter. For taxpayers, for historians, for anyone who ever dares to question the truth imposed on us all.Book Review: A People's History of the United States
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a fantastic history book, very easy to read and eye opening! My husband and I are both reading it. So different than what we are taught in school. I absolutely love this book.Book Review: A People's History of the United States
Summary: 4 Stars
My brother-in-law gave me this book in paperback for Christmas some time ago, and I've just now finished reading it. Even though I quibble with some of Zinn's facts and I don't agree with his ultimate solution, I believe that this presentation of U.S. history gives excellent food for thought and I intend eventually to purchase it in hardcover for myself as well as to make gifts of the paperback edition to people I know. (I should also say that I find his lack of footnote references to be a little irritating, but he makes up for it by providing a comprehensive bibliography at the end.)Book Review: A People's History of the United States
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a book that everyone should read & should be a requirement in all schools.