The prize winning classic work on the post Civil War period which wrenched American society; now with a new introduction by the author."The creation of the United States of America is the greatest of all human adventures;" begins Paul Johnson’s remarkable new American history. "No other national story holds such tremendous lessons; for the American people themselves and for the rest of mankind." Johnson’s history is a reinterpretation of American history from the first settlements to the Clinton administration. It covers every aspect of U.S. history—politics; business and economics; art; literature and science; society and customs; complex traditions and religious beliefs. The story is told in terms of the men and women who shaped and led the nation and the ordinary people who collectively created its unique character. Wherever possible; letters; diaries; and recorded conversations are used to ensure a sense of actuality. "The book has new and often trenchant things to say about every aspect and period of America’s past;" says Johnson; "and I do not seek; as some historians do; to conceal my opinions."This is an in-depth portrait of a great people; from their fragile origins through their struggles for independence and nationhood; their heroic efforts and sacrifices to deal with the 'organic sin’ of slavery and the preservation of the Union to its explosive economic growth and emergence as a world power and its sole superpower. Johnson discusses such contemporary topics as the politics of racism; education; Vietnam; the power of the press; political correctness; the growth of litigation; and the rising influence of women. He sees Americans as a problem-solving people and the story of America as "essentially one of difficulties being overcome by intelligence and skill; by faith and strength of purpose; by courage and persistence... Looking back on its past; and forward to its future; the auguries are that it will not disappoint humanity."This challenging narrative and interpretation of American history by the author of many distinguished historical works is sometimes controversial and always provocative. Johnson’s views of individuals; events; themes; and issues are original; critical; and admiring; for he is; above all; a strong believer in the history and the destiny of the American people.
#144997 in Books Philip P Hallie 1994-04-08 1994-04-08Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.00 x .76 x 5.31l; .58 #File Name: 0060925175303 pagesLest Innocent Blood Be Shed The Story of the Village of Le Chambon and How Goodness Happened There
Review
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. StunningBy R. CannataI read this last summer; and I wish I had written this review when it was still fresh in my mind.It is the wonderful story of Le Chambon; a poor French Protestant (Calvinist) village of 3;000 that successfully hid 2;500-5;000 Jews from the Gestapo and Vichy for the entire occupation. The author (Jewish philosopher) shows that the Calvinism of the villagers led them to risk everything to rescue Jewish strangers. Beautiful portraits of Pastor Trocme; his Italian wife; the theologian/physician Le Forestier (who worked with Schweitzer; but left to work with Trocme); etc. Incredible picture of the violence of the Resistance (and sad infighting). Stark contrast to incredible principles of the pacifist Trocme et al.Writing style is overwrought; even goofy; at points; and longwinded; but this book will push a Christian to feel why Christ matters.4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. what is possibleBy Elaine RhodesA World War II veteran; author Philip Hallie had seen humanity's inhumanity up close and took it very personally. He found out about Le Chambon; France; a town that was able to retain its human integrity and goodness in the face of the Nazis on the doorstep. He felt that writing a book about Le Chambon and its leaders would redeem him and others; because "redemption lies in remembering." The story is told with the authenticity of one who values the truth and with a love for those who embody it. Without sugar-coating it; the truth he tells reveals not only inhumanity but what is possible when committed people lead not with fear; but with compassion; courage; and wisdom: The way opens for miracles to be seen. It is a moving story that is well worth a careful read; both for the story and for the questions it raises about how we live our own lives. In an age filled with horrendous fears and little commitment outside ourselves; this book can be a "light shining in the darkness."0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Fresh peanutsBy BeezeeLike going to a baseball game without being at the ball park. Tasted fresh-not stale.
