A NEW AMERICAN HISTORY

by W. E. Woodward ‧ RELEASE DATE: Dec. 4, 1936

Possibly there is nothing especially startling in historic viewpoint in this new contribution to the study of our national history. But I know of no other historian who has presented in so comprehensive and yet compact form, such an excellent general history as this. One feels, possibly, a skimming of the contribution made to the country by other races than the English and Dutch, but it is implied, as the country expands. One feels, also, that the viewpoint is eastern seaboard, primarily, but that again can be offset by the generous objectivity of the presentation. Economic and social foundations, changing manners and times, contributory factors in psychological and philosophical angles, the human equation -- all this gives a rounded picture that seems to depend not at all on dates and dry data of battles, laws, and changing presidential regimes. The book is crammed full of picturesque and telling anecdotal material and reads easily and entertainingly from first page to last. One is not overly conscious of the approach being prevailingly left wing or right wing. Due emphasis is paid to the parts of labor and capital, but they are not viewed as the be-all and the end-all. Possibly the left wingers will feel this ""dates"" the book, that the ""historical approach"" is old school. But the majority of readers will find it fills the crying need for a balanced viewpoint and fair presentation of facts. Essential for libraries, public, college and school libraries. Important background book for the well planned home library.

Pub Date: Dec. 4, 1936

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Farrar & Rinehart

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 1936

Categories: NONFICTION