Howard Zinn's legacies go beyond just his approach to history, his profound optimism, his impact on popular culture. Indeed, as Davis D. Joyce writes in his introduction to Howard Zinn's Legacies, Zinn held consistently to a "radical American vision." It was radical in the sense that it sought to bring about fundamental change in the political, economic and social order to get to the roots. But it was also profoundly American: his writings were grounded firmly in the ideals on which...
More DescriptionHoward Zinn's legacies go beyond just his approach to history, his profound optimism, his impact on popular culture. Indeed, as Davis D. Joyce writes in his introduction to Howard Zinn's Legacies, Zinn held consistently to a "radical American vision." It was radical in the sense that it sought to bring about fundamental change in the political, economic and social order to get to the roots. But it was also profoundly American: his writings were grounded firmly in the ideals on which the United States of America was founded, the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, such ideals as life and liberty and the pursuit of happiness and equality and self-determination that are so self-evident and inherent that no government has the right to take them away.
In Howard Zinn's Legacies, Noam Chomsky hails Zinn's influential writings while noting that his actions were equally inspirational - a combination rare in modern life. Staughton Lynd explains the complexities of both Zinn's life and his writings, stressing his urge to speak not to academicians but to the general public. John Tirman, who studied under Zinn, argues he led his life as a good citizen: participating in the great discussions of the day while working toward a decent society. Matthew Rothschild hails Zinn's ever-present optimism and explains how his theory of social change presaged citizen movements creating change around the world. Alvin O. Turner assesses Zinn as a prophet, whose work and life inspired a new generation of historians and political scientists. Christine Pappas examines the complex issue of Zinn's treatment of women, a subject that's drawn strong opinions from feminists and other critics. Rachel C. Jackson argues Zinn's "people's history" can be applied locally to Oklahomans seeking social change.
"Unlike many radicals, he was no mere denouncer," writes Davis D. Joyce. "He so believed in America that he believed it could transcend itself. He lifted up alternative futures, and insisted they were possible. Indeed, Zinn's life was a testament to possibility, as all who revere his memory know from their own experience."