ALBUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY: 1917-1953

by Joseph G.E.-Ed. Hopkins ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 10, 1960

James Truslow Adams launched this project of a pictorial history in 1944. At that time the 4th volume was to be End of an Era and the 5th volume an Index. Now- in 1960- the 5th volume opens with our men going to France and closes with the change in administration to Dwight D. Eisenhower. A singular impression emerges from these years -- a sense of isolation, despite two world wars. The focus is so overwhelmingly on the home front in peace and war. Even the emergence (in 1919) of industries speeded up by war-aircraft, automobiles, radio -- that it is what it means in terms of America's way of life that makes its imprint. Recurrently, fads, scandals, music, theatre, sports, fashions, building and decoration, these are caught at typical moments. And how quickly they all date and seem old fashioned. These were the years that saw prohibition come and go, with its far reaching effects; that saw a whole nation change to a motoring way of life; that introduced chain stores and super markets; that experienced boom and bust; that took drastic steps towards government responsibility for the underprivileged; that brought the United Nations into existence; that saw the U.S. emerge into a great world power. And still- one feels eyes turned on the American way of life, singularly untouched by its new role. Does this fulfill both goals set by Mr. Adams? Authenticity of fact and period- yes. But do these pictures really illustrate significant aspects of life of the times? Whether or not they do, they have a nostalgic and curiosity value that keeps one turning the pages.

Pub Date: Oct. 10, 1960

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Scribner

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1960

Categories: NONFICTION