"California" by Kevin Starr is an evocative exploration of the Golden State's vibrant history, weaving together tales of its diverse cultures, technological advancements, and environmental challenges. Starr paints a vivid picture of California's transformation from a land of dreams to a complex reality, capturing the essence of its unique spirit and resilience. Readers will uncover the stories of influential figures who shaped the state's identity and the ongoing search for balance between progress and preservation. With rich narrative and insightful reflections, this book invites readers to ponder the future of California amidst ever-changing dynamics. Dive into this compelling journey and discover what makes California an enduring symbol of innovation and diversity.
By Kevin Starr
Published: 2007
""California is not just a place; it's a state of mind, a tapestry of dreams woven from the diverse threads of its people and the landscapes that cradle them.""
“A California classic . . . California, it should be remembered, was very much the wild west, having to wait until 1850 before it could force its way into statehood. so what tamed it? Mr. Starr’s answer is a combination of great men, great ideas and great projects.”—The Economist From the age of exploration to the age of Arnold, the Golden State’s premier historian distills the entire sweep of California’s history into one splendid volume. Kevin Starr covers it all: Spain’s conquest of the native peoples of California in the early sixteenth century and the chain of missions that helped that country exert control over the upper part of the territory; the discovery of gold in January 1848; the incredible wealth of the Big Four railroad tycoons; the devastating San Francisco earthquake of 1906; the emergence of Hollywood as the world’s entertainment capital and of Silicon Valley as the center of high-tech research and development; the role of labor, both organized and migrant, in key industries from agriculture to aerospace. In a rapid-fire epic of discovery, innovation, catastrophe, and triumph, Starr gathers together everything that is most important, most fascinating, and most revealing about our greatest state. Praise for California “[A] fast-paced and wide-ranging history . . . [Starr] accomplishes the feat with skill, grace and verve.”—Los Angeles Times Book Review “Kevin Starr is one of california’s greatest historians, and California is an invaluable contribution to our state’s record and lore.”—MarIa ShrIver, journalist and former First Lady of California “A breeze to read.”—San Francisco
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“"California is not just a place; it's a state of mind, a tapestry of dreams woven from the diverse threads of its people and the landscapes that cradle them."”
California
By Kevin Starr
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Kevin Starr (1940-2017) was an esteemed American author and historian, known primarily for his profound exploration of California's history and culture. His notable works include the acclaimed 'Americans and the California Dream' series, which captures the essence of California's evolving identity, as well as 'Golden Dreams: Stories from California.' Starr's writing is characterized by its rich narrative style, deep historical insight, and a unique ability to weave personal stories with broader socio-cultural themes. In addition to his literary contributions, he served as the State Librarian of California and was a professor at the University of Southern California, leaving a lasting impact on both literature and education.
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