In 'American Nations', Colin Woodard reveals the hidden divisions that shaped the United States through historical regional cultures. He identifies eleven distinct 'nations' that each have their own values, beliefs, and identities, influencing everything from politics to social norms. Woodard's exploration challenges the conventional narrative of a singular American identity, inviting readers to rethink the complexities of American history. With compelling storytelling, he illustrates how these cultural divides continue to affect modern America. Dive into this thought-provoking journey and discover the surprising forces that unite and separate us.
By Colin Woodard
Published: 2012
"'Understanding the deep cultural, historical, and ideological divides that shape America is essential to forging a more unified future.'"
• A New Republic Best Book of the Year • The Globalist Top Books of the Year • Winner of the Maine Literary Award for Non-fiction Particularly relevant in understanding who voted for who during presidential elections, this is an endlessly fascinating look at American regionalism and the eleven “nations” that continue to shape North America According to award-winning journalist and historian Colin Woodard, North America is made up of eleven distinct nations, each with its own unique historical roots. In American Nations he takes readers on a journey through the history of our fractured continent, offering a revolutionary and revelatory take on American identity, and how the conflicts between them have shaped our past and continue to mold our future. From the Deep South to the Far West, to Yankeedom to El Norte, Woodard (author of American Character: A History of the Epic Struggle Between Individual Liberty and the Common Good) reveals how each region continues to uphold its distinguishing ideals and identities today, with results that can be seen in the composition of the U.S. Congress or on the county-by-county election maps of any hotly contested election in our history.
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“'Understanding the deep cultural, historical, and ideological divides that shape America is essential to forging a more unified future.'”
American Nations
By Colin Woodard
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Colin Woodard is an acclaimed American journalist, historian, and author known for his comprehensive exploration of American history, culture, and identity. He is the author of several notable works, including 'American Nations: A History of the Eleven Rival Regional Cultures of North America,' which examines the distinct cultural regions of the U.S., and 'The Republic of Pirates,' which details the history of piracy in the Caribbean. Woodard's writing is characterized by meticulous research and a compelling narrative style that brings historical figures and events to life. His insightful analyses offer readers a deeper understanding of the complexities of American society.
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