The Rise and Fall of Violent Crime in America Book Summary

In 'The Rise and Fall of Violent Crime in America', Barry Latzer delivers a riveting exploration of the complexities surrounding crime rates over the decades. Through a blend of historical data and compelling anecdotes, he unveils the sociopolitical factors that have influenced the ebb and flow of violence in American society. Latzer challenges popular narratives, making a case for understanding crime through a multifaceted lens. As he examines the peaks of violence and the subsequent decline, readers are left questioning what really drives human behavior. Will his insights change how we perceive safety in our communities?

By Barry Latzer

Published: 2017

""Understanding the patterns of violent crime in America is not just about statistics; it's a journey into the heart of society, revealing the undercurrents of fear, power, and the relentless quest for safety.""

Book Review of The Rise and Fall of Violent Crime in America

"Starting in the late 1960s, the United States suffered the biggest rise in violent crime in its history. Aside from the movement for black civil rights, it is difficult to think of a phenomenon that had a more profound effect on American life in the last third of the 20th century. Fear of murder, rape, robbery and assault influenced decisions on where to live and where to school one's children, how to commute to work and where to spend one's leisure time. In some locales, people dreaded leaving their homes at any time, day or night, and many Americans spent part of each day literally looking over their shoulders. [This books is a] synthesis of criminology and social history that...explains how and why violent crime exploded across the United States in the late 60s--and what ultimately drove it down decades later. It is the first book of its kind to analyze criminal violence in the U.S. from World War II to the 21st century. It examines crime in the context of all of the major social trends since the World War, including the postwar economic boom and suburbanization, the Baby Boom and the turmoil of the 60s, the urbanization of minorities, the advent of crack cocaine, the hardening of the criminal justice system and current efforts to contract it."--

Similar books you might like →

Showing 8 of 27 similar books

Similar Book Recommendations →

Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.

Inspiring ReadsBusiness and LeadershipCreativity and InnovationTechnology and Future

Howard Schultz's Book Recommendations

Howard Schultz is the former CEO of Starbucks, where he transformed the company into a global coffeehouse empire. Under his leadership, Starbucks grew from a small Seattle-based chain to a ubiquitous brand with thousands of stores worldwide. Schultz is also an accomplished author, known for his books "Pour Your Heart Into It" and "Onward," which delve into his personal journey and the business philosophies that drove Starbucks' success. His literary contributions offer valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and social responsibility. Schultz's work has inspired countless readers and aspiring business leaders around the globe.

Business and LeadershipSuccess Stories and Life LessonsInspiring Reads

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

PoliticsMemoirs and BiographiesSuccess Stories and Life Lessons

Mark Manson's Book Recommendations

Mark Manson is a best-selling author and personal development expert known for his candid and no-nonsense approach to self-help. His most notable work, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been translated into numerous languages, resonating with readers for its practical advice and irreverent tone. Manson followed up with another successful book, "Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope," which further cemented his reputation as a thought leader in modern existentialism. In addition to his books, he runs a popular blog that delves into topics ranging from happiness to personal growth. His work has not only transformed the self-help genre but also influenced a global audience seeking authentic and actionable guidance.

Self-ImprovementMindfulnessLife Advice

Bernie Sanders's Book Recommendations

Bernie Sanders is an American politician and U.S. Senator from Vermont, known for his progressive policies and his advocacy for economic equality. Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, inspiring a movement with his calls for Medicare for All, free college tuition, and a $15 minimum wage. He identifies as a democratic socialist and has been a long-standing advocate for labor rights, environmental justice, and social welfare programs. Sanders’ candidacy energized a new generation of activists and has had a lasting influence on the direction of the Democratic Party. His focus on income inequality and social justice continues to shape political discourse in the U.S.

PoliticsActivist

Matt Damon's Book Recommendations

Matt Damon is an acclaimed American actor, screenwriter, and producer known for his significant contributions to both film and literature. He co-wrote and starred in "Good Will Hunting," which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Damon's storytelling prowess extends to his involvement in the Jason Bourne series, where his portrayal of the titular character was both a critical and commercial success. In addition to his screenwriting accolades, Damon's influential works address complex themes of identity and resilience. His contributions have left a lasting impact on contemporary cinema and narrative arts.

Media and Pop CultureInspiring ReadsMemoirs and Biographies

Eric Jorgenson's Book Recommendations

Eric Jorgenson is an author, investor, and product strategist best known for his book The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, which distills the wisdom of the entrepreneur and angel investor Naval Ravikant. Jorgenson's work focuses on personal development, wealth creation, and life philosophy. His ability to synthesize complex ideas into actionable insights has made his writing widely popular among entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts. Beyond writing, Jorgenson has worked in product strategy at Zaarly, a marketplace for home services, and is involved in early-stage startup investing. He frequently speaks on the intersection of business, technology, and philosophy, and his blog covers topics ranging from mental models to entrepreneurship. Jorgenson's approach emphasizes learning from others' experiences and applying timeless principles to modern challenges. He continues to inspire a generation of readers with his clear, thoughtful reflections on how to live a more successful and fulfilling life.

Self-ImprovementBusiness and LeadershipLife Advice

Jamie Foxx's Book Recommendations

Jamie Foxx is an American actor, comedian, and singer, known for his versatility across various forms of entertainment. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the biopic Ray and has appeared in numerous films, including Django Unchained and Collateral. Foxx is also a successful musician, having released multiple albums and collaborated with top artists in the music industry. His ability to move between comedy, drama, and music has made him one of the most talented and respected performers in Hollywood. Beyond his entertainment career, Foxx is a philanthropist, supporting various causes related to health and education.

Memoirs and BiographiesMedia and Pop CultureInspiring Reads

Showing 8 of 20 related collections

"Understanding the patterns of violent crime in America is not just about statistics; it's a journey into the heart of society, revealing the undercurrents of fear, power, and the relentless quest for safety."

The Rise and Fall of Violent Crime in America

By Barry Latzer