Appalachia has played a complex and often contradictory role in the unfolding of American history. Created by urban journalists in the years following the Civil War; the idea of Appalachia provided a counterpoint to emerging definitions of progress. Early-twentieth-century critics of modernity saw the region as a remnant of frontier life; a reflection of simpler times that should be preserved and protected. However; supporters of development and of the growth of material production; consumption; and technology decried what they perceived as the isolation and backwardness of the place and sought to "uplift" the mountain people through education and industrialization.Ronald D Eller has worked with local leaders; state policymakers; and national planners to translate the lessons of private industrial-development history into public policy affecting the region. In Uneven Ground: Appalachia since 1945; Eller examines the politics of development in Appalachia since World War II with an eye toward exploring the idea of progress as it has evolved in modern America. Appalachia's struggle to overcome poverty; to live in harmony with the land; and to respect the diversity of cultures and the value of community is also an American story. In the end; Eller concludes; "Appalachia was not different from the rest of America; it was in fact a mirror of what the nation was becoming."
#1083267 in Books Worth John E 2016-01-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.21 x .76 x 6.14l; .0 #File Name: 0813061903344 pagesDiscovering Florida First Contact Narratives from Spanish Expeditions Along the Lower Gulf Coast
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. I can also add that it is fun to readBy Vicki S HarrisThis is an excllent book for those interested in learning more about the contact between 16th Century Spanish expeditions and the Native groups of South Florida.Dr. Worth is one of the leading experts in translating this type of material in the Southeast; and that is very apparent in this Spanish/ English translation. In addition to the references usually noted in this type publication; he also includes detailed notes on each chapter that identify for the reader definitions of various vessel and weapon types that are specific to that era. For instance; he points out several times that in the 16th century the Spanish term Bergantin (translated Brigantine in English) referred to a small coastal ship based on the Galley type; quite different than the large square rigged Brigantine of the 18th Century. There are many translation details such as this in the book that add greatly to its interest. As a non-academic; I can also add that it is fun to read! A great book for those interested in Southeastern history!1 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Brenda K. RiceGood reading!
