Myth America. Book Summary

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Kevin M. Kruse, Julian E. Zelizer

What’s inside

Myth America: Historians Take on the Biggest Legends and Lies About Our Past, is a collection of essays edited by Kevin M. Kruse and Julian E. Zelizer. This book tackles various myths that are deeply ingrained in the American consciousness. Through detailed historical analysis, the contributing historians debunk widespread misunderstandings about American history, including topics like the founding fathers, the Civil War, the Cold War, and the 1960s. The essays seek to clarify how these myths came to be and why they persist, often exploring the political motives behind their propagation.

You’ll Learn

  • Gaining a clearer understanding of American history
  • Challenging and refining critical thinking skills
  • Recognizing the impact of myth on political and social beliefs
  • Enhancing the ability to discern historical truth from fiction

Key Points

  • Debunking the Myth of the Founding Fathers
  • Untangling the Complex Reality of the Civil War
  • Exposing the Misconceptions of the Cold War
  • The Distorted Narratives of the 1960s
  • Analyzing the Political Use of Historical Myths
  • Clarifying the True Stories Behind American Icons

Who’s it For

  • history enthusiasts
  • students of American history
  • educators
  • political science students
  • readers interested in historical truth

About the author

Kevin M. Kruse is a renowned historian specializing in 20th-century American political history. Julian E. Zelizer is a prominent political analyst and historian with expertise in U.S. political and policy history. Both authors are acclaimed for their insightful analyses and have contributed significantly to the field of American history.