Title
Sense of History: The Place of the Past in American Life,Used
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As Americans enter the new century, their interest in the past has never been greater. In record numbers they visit museums and historic sites, attend commemorative ceremonies and festivals, watch historically based films, and reconstruct family genealogies. The question is, Why? What are Americans looking for when they engage with the past? And how is it different from what scholars call 'history'? In this book, David Glassberg surveys the shifting boundaries between the personal, public, and professional uses of the past and explores their place in the broader cultural landscape. Each chapter investigates a specific encounter between Americans and their history: the building of a pacifist war memorial in a rural Massachusetts town; the politics behind the creation of a new historical festival in San Francisco; the letters Ken Burns received in response to his film series on the Civil War; the differing perceptions among black and white residents as to what makes an urban neighborhood historic; and the efforts to identify certain places in California as worthy of commemoration. Along the way, Glassberg reflects not only on how Americans understand and use the past, but on the role of professional historians in that enterprise. Combining the latest research on American memory with insights gained from Glassberg's more than twenty years of personal experience in a variety of public history projects, Sense of History offers stimulating reading for all who care about the future of history in America.
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- Q: What is the main theme of 'Sense of History: The Place of the Past in American Life'? A: The main theme of the book explores the evolving relationship Americans have with their history, focusing on why they engage with the past through various cultural activities.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Sense of History' is David Glassberg, who has extensive experience in public history projects.
- Q: What type of readers would benefit from this book? A: Readers interested in American history, memory studies, and the intersection of personal and public history will find this book particularly insightful.
- Q: How many pages are in 'Sense of History'? A: 'Sense of History' contains a total of 288 pages, providing a comprehensive exploration of its themes.
- Q: What is the condition of the book being offered? A: The book is listed as a 'Used Book in Good Condition', ensuring it is still readable and intact.
- Q: When was 'Sense of History' published? A: The book was published on April 23, 2001.
- Q: What is the binding type of the book? A: The book has a paperback binding, making it lightweight and portable.
- Q: Is there a specific focus on any historical events or figures in the book? A: Yes, the book investigates specific encounters with history, including the Civil War and the creation of historical memorials.
- Q: Does the book include any personal experiences from the author? A: Yes, David Glassberg incorporates insights from his more than twenty years of experience in public history projects throughout the book.
- Q: What makes this book relevant for contemporary readers? A: The book addresses the increasing interest in history in American culture, making it relevant for readers looking to understand current historical engagement.