I came across a review on another blog today of the book I'm currently reading. I'm stepping out of my usual area of interest to read Eric Hobsbawm's Age of Revolution. I purchased all four books in Hobsbawm's series (Revolution, Capital, Empire, and Extremes) while I was in college and grad school, back when I was seriously thinking about focusing on 20th century European history (a very fleeting moment, for sure). However, I've always thought that one day I'd return to the series and read all four books. I started reading Age of Revolution last month and have been reading a chapter here, a chapter there as time allows. Seeing this review this morning was very interesting and sort of spurs me to speed things up a bit and get moving on this book and the series.
If you haven't checked out the blog, The Junto, you really should do so, especially if you are interested in early American history. It is most definitely an academic blog, but there's a whole lot to like about the stuff they are posting. It's well worth monitoring for little nuggets like today's book review.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Book Review - 1812: War and the Passions of Patriotism
I can't believe it has been two months since my last blog post. However, considering how busy the last two months have been, I shouldn't be so surprised. My apologies for the long absence. So to start off the new year, I'd like to offer a book review.
I just finished reading Nicole Eustace's 1812: War and the Passions of Patriotism. This book offers a fresh take on the War of 1812 and approaches the war from a number of perspectives. This is not a military history; far from it, this book explores early 19th century American ideas about patriotism, duty, and love (love of family, country, etc.). Eustace points out how romantic and familial love were equated with patriotism and love of country. Prowar forces within the United States attempted in various ways to juxtapose their righteous view of America's war aims with the less-than-virtuous British and their Native American (and in some cases, black) allies.
.
In the end, Americans had to face many contradictions, such as how a nation that espoused liberty still endorsed the institution of slavery, and how their claims to defending their rights to life, liberty, and property rang hollow against their real war aims of territorial expansion and denying the Native American population those same rights. While this book is not necessarily pro-British, it certainly points out weaknesses in American arguments and claims as to what their war aims really were. In the end, Eustace sums up the importance, usually forgotten or swept aside, of this war in real terms. She points out that the legacy of this war is one of vast territorial expansion and Indian removal that persisted until well after the next three American Wars (the Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War).
If you want to read a solid social and intellectual history of the War of 1812 without getting bogged down in the military intricacies of the conflict this is the book for you. It is very well written and well argued, and will make you think of the War of 1812 in a different light
I just finished reading Nicole Eustace's 1812: War and the Passions of Patriotism. This book offers a fresh take on the War of 1812 and approaches the war from a number of perspectives. This is not a military history; far from it, this book explores early 19th century American ideas about patriotism, duty, and love (love of family, country, etc.). Eustace points out how romantic and familial love were equated with patriotism and love of country. Prowar forces within the United States attempted in various ways to juxtapose their righteous view of America's war aims with the less-than-virtuous British and their Native American (and in some cases, black) allies.
.
In the end, Americans had to face many contradictions, such as how a nation that espoused liberty still endorsed the institution of slavery, and how their claims to defending their rights to life, liberty, and property rang hollow against their real war aims of territorial expansion and denying the Native American population those same rights. While this book is not necessarily pro-British, it certainly points out weaknesses in American arguments and claims as to what their war aims really were. In the end, Eustace sums up the importance, usually forgotten or swept aside, of this war in real terms. She points out that the legacy of this war is one of vast territorial expansion and Indian removal that persisted until well after the next three American Wars (the Mexican War, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War).
If you want to read a solid social and intellectual history of the War of 1812 without getting bogged down in the military intricacies of the conflict this is the book for you. It is very well written and well argued, and will make you think of the War of 1812 in a different light
Friday, October 26, 2012
These Monthly Posts Are Becoming Habit
It seems that I've gotten into a groove of posting about once a month here lately. Much of this is the result of just being extremely busy, all the time. I have already started planning to write one of those "year in review" type letters that some folks write during the holidays and send out to all their friends and relatives. However, I won't be sending it out with my Christmas cards or anything like that. I'm still on the fence about whether or not to put it here on the blog because some of it is going to be very personal in nature. I may post it as a "Note" on Facebook (if that function still in fact exists on Facebook). At any rate, I just think it will help me to clear my head of everything that has happened this year, which has been quite a lot.
For the short term, please take a look at the blog page. I have updated my profile a wee bit and changed the "What I'm Currently Reading" so it is now accurate and up to date. I will be conducting a historic weapons certification class Monday-Wednesday and will try to post some photos and commentary at some point. Of course, immediately after the class I will be heading to Fort Macon for our War of 1812 garrison weekend, followed by moving! Yes, it should be an exciting two weeks around here. Stay tuned!
For the short term, please take a look at the blog page. I have updated my profile a wee bit and changed the "What I'm Currently Reading" so it is now accurate and up to date. I will be conducting a historic weapons certification class Monday-Wednesday and will try to post some photos and commentary at some point. Of course, immediately after the class I will be heading to Fort Macon for our War of 1812 garrison weekend, followed by moving! Yes, it should be an exciting two weeks around here. Stay tuned!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
I'm Still Here, Part Deux
Once again, I come to you after a month of not posting. Let's just say that September has pretty well kicked my butt and leave it at that. October looks to be even crazier, but hopefully in a better, more positive way. Here's the wrap up:
Good - got a promotion on August 15 (same job, plus added duties for a 10% raise)
Neutral - lots of projects coming due at the same time equals very busy me
Not so good - maternal grandmother and father passed away within four days of one another, leading to multiple funerals and all the stuff that goes along with those kinds of life altering events.
Also lost in all this were two trips to Pennsylvania (one for obvious reasons). I know most of you were already aware of all the things listed above and I hope you'll forgive the redundancy.
Alas, I have not forgotten the blog, but have not had time to really write much at all that isn't required by work. There will be plenty of material to blog about in October and I hope to be able to keep up with all of it.
Finally, for anyone who might be interested, I am now on Twitter (@ADuppstadt). Not sure how much of the blog I'll be posting there as it is already posted to Facebook whenever Networked Blogs is working properly. And, for what its worth, I'm also on LinkedIn. You can find me in any of those locales even when I'm not blogging about something!
Good - got a promotion on August 15 (same job, plus added duties for a 10% raise)
Neutral - lots of projects coming due at the same time equals very busy me
Not so good - maternal grandmother and father passed away within four days of one another, leading to multiple funerals and all the stuff that goes along with those kinds of life altering events.
Also lost in all this were two trips to Pennsylvania (one for obvious reasons). I know most of you were already aware of all the things listed above and I hope you'll forgive the redundancy.
Alas, I have not forgotten the blog, but have not had time to really write much at all that isn't required by work. There will be plenty of material to blog about in October and I hope to be able to keep up with all of it.
Finally, for anyone who might be interested, I am now on Twitter (@ADuppstadt). Not sure how much of the blog I'll be posting there as it is already posted to Facebook whenever Networked Blogs is working properly. And, for what its worth, I'm also on LinkedIn. You can find me in any of those locales even when I'm not blogging about something!
Thursday, August 23, 2012
I'm Still Here
Honestly, I've been extremely busy, but not with anything that's particularly blog worthy. Since my last post over a month ago I have been working on numerous projects at work, finished up my summer session classes, and started fall semester. This semester, aside from my usual community college courses, I am teaching one online section of American History I for UNC-Pembroke. I am excited about the opportunity; I have taught at the university level before, but it was almost ten years ago and it was a brief stint. I am only one week into fall semester and the good folks at Pembroke have already scheduled me for the same class in the spring. I certainly have to thank my good buddy Ryan Anderson, coordinator of Pembroke's American Studies program for hooking me up with the department and setting me on the path to this opportunity. And, as with most situations in life, I've found that the administrative assistant in the department is one of the most important people to know as she has helped me deal with a lot of situations already, which has kept me from having to make a three hour drive to the campus. I'd like to visit one of these days, but it would have been just a bit inconvenient to do so anytime over the past couple of weeks. So, here's looking forward to a new semester while trying to keep up with all the other plates that are spinning. You know, I'd be bored if it were any easier (or at least that's what I keep telling myself).
Thursday, July 12, 2012
The Bicentennial has Really Begun
I've been meaning to write a post summarizing the various War of 1812 Bicentennial activities I've taken part in since OpSail in Norfolk. Things have been hectic to say the least. Aside from many work-related projects, I've had lots of work to do surrounding my classes and some professional development, which I may get into later. I was talking with Mike Hill from the Office of Archives and History Research Branch earlier this week and was reminded that I really needed to write this post, so this one's for Mike.
On Friday, June 29 the NC Department of Cultural Resources War of 1812 Bicentennial Planning Committee hosted its Bicentennial kickoff symposium at the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort. I had been very much looking forward to this symposium for a number of reasons. I knew it would give me a chance to see colleagues I don't often see like the aforementioned Mr. Hill, Josh Howard, LeRae Umfleet, Dr. David Brook, and others. I was also very interested in hearing a number of the speakers on the program, particularly Stephen Budiansky, author of the excellent book Perilous Fight. Mr. Budiansky did not disappoint; his keynote address was very good. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to his presentation. Tommy Sheppard's discussion of American sailors impressed into the British navy was unique and interesting. Most folks know that impressment was one of the causes of the war, but to hear stories of the sailors who suffered that fate was a nice change of pace. Thus ended the morning session and I was off to lunch at the Royal James Cafe with Josh and Dr. Larry Babits. The conversation was stimulating and the fellowship enjoyable.
Gerald Thomas was the first speaker of the afternoon. He has authored numerous works on the history of Bertie County, NC including a recently published work on the county during the War of 1812. My feelings on this presentation are decidedly mixed. I didn't agree with some of his conclusions and though his research seems pretty thorough it just seemed like there were some holes that were left unfilled. Next was a panel discussion featuring Dr. Wade Dudley, Dr. Lindley Butler, and William Thiessen. Each gave a short presentation on a particular "niche" of the war. All three were great, and could have easily done a full-length presentation if not for the time constraints of the program. The symposium wrapped up with Dr. Larry Babits' presentation about doing living history on the USS Niagara. It was a real treat listening to one of the foremost maritime and military historians in the state talk about a craft that many of us strive to be as good at as he is.
All in all, this was an excellent symposium and the committee should be proud of their efforts. The attendance was, I think, better than expected with about 75 folks in attendance throughout the day. The unveiling of the museum's new War of 1812 exhibit was icing on the cake. Friday evening there was a harbor cruise and dinner; I did not take part in that activity and I'm not certain how many did.
The following day, a living history encampment was held on the Beaufort Historical Association grounds, just a block or two from the museum. Reenactors representing the NC Militia, British 4th Regt. of Foot, and the privateer Snap Dragon were on hand to interpret the war for visitors. Musket demonstrations were conducted throughout the day, but visitation was somewhat light due to excessive heat. Still, the reenactors all had a good time and were well taken care of by the BHA staff who provided lunch and other amenities. Toward the end of the afternoon a number of us trekked the two blocks to the Old Burying Ground and visited the graves of many notables, including the privateer captain Otway Burns. I would definitely consider the weekend a success and think it was a quite commendable way to kick off the War of 1812 Bicentennial in North Carolina!
On Friday, June 29 the NC Department of Cultural Resources War of 1812 Bicentennial Planning Committee hosted its Bicentennial kickoff symposium at the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort. I had been very much looking forward to this symposium for a number of reasons. I knew it would give me a chance to see colleagues I don't often see like the aforementioned Mr. Hill, Josh Howard, LeRae Umfleet, Dr. David Brook, and others. I was also very interested in hearing a number of the speakers on the program, particularly Stephen Budiansky, author of the excellent book Perilous Fight. Mr. Budiansky did not disappoint; his keynote address was very good. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to his presentation. Tommy Sheppard's discussion of American sailors impressed into the British navy was unique and interesting. Most folks know that impressment was one of the causes of the war, but to hear stories of the sailors who suffered that fate was a nice change of pace. Thus ended the morning session and I was off to lunch at the Royal James Cafe with Josh and Dr. Larry Babits. The conversation was stimulating and the fellowship enjoyable.
Gerald Thomas was the first speaker of the afternoon. He has authored numerous works on the history of Bertie County, NC including a recently published work on the county during the War of 1812. My feelings on this presentation are decidedly mixed. I didn't agree with some of his conclusions and though his research seems pretty thorough it just seemed like there were some holes that were left unfilled. Next was a panel discussion featuring Dr. Wade Dudley, Dr. Lindley Butler, and William Thiessen. Each gave a short presentation on a particular "niche" of the war. All three were great, and could have easily done a full-length presentation if not for the time constraints of the program. The symposium wrapped up with Dr. Larry Babits' presentation about doing living history on the USS Niagara. It was a real treat listening to one of the foremost maritime and military historians in the state talk about a craft that many of us strive to be as good at as he is.
All in all, this was an excellent symposium and the committee should be proud of their efforts. The attendance was, I think, better than expected with about 75 folks in attendance throughout the day. The unveiling of the museum's new War of 1812 exhibit was icing on the cake. Friday evening there was a harbor cruise and dinner; I did not take part in that activity and I'm not certain how many did.
The following day, a living history encampment was held on the Beaufort Historical Association grounds, just a block or two from the museum. Reenactors representing the NC Militia, British 4th Regt. of Foot, and the privateer Snap Dragon were on hand to interpret the war for visitors. Musket demonstrations were conducted throughout the day, but visitation was somewhat light due to excessive heat. Still, the reenactors all had a good time and were well taken care of by the BHA staff who provided lunch and other amenities. Toward the end of the afternoon a number of us trekked the two blocks to the Old Burying Ground and visited the graves of many notables, including the privateer captain Otway Burns. I would definitely consider the weekend a success and think it was a quite commendable way to kick off the War of 1812 Bicentennial in North Carolina!
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
War of 1812 Bicentennial Kicks Off in NC
This past weekend a group of dedicated War of 1812 reenactors gathered in Raleigh, NC on the grounds of the State Capitol and at the Mordecai Historic Park to reenact and commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States' declaration of war against Great Britain in 1812. At the State Capitol the declaration was read and the Wake Volunteer Guards militia fired muskets and a cannon. Later that evening a ball was held at the Raleigh City Museum to cap off the day's activities. And with that, the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 officially began in North Carolina.
This weekend the NC Department of Cultural Resources War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee officially begins its commemoration of the little remembered and even less understood war that was pivotal in creating a sense of national pride and unity both here in the United States and in Canada. The Committee will kick off it's commemoration with a day-long symposium focusing on the naval war on Friday, June 29 at the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort. Saturday the commemoration will continue with a living history program on the grounds of the Beaufort Historical Association featuring US Regulars, militia, British forces, and sailors.
There are also activities taking place in the colonial capital of New Bern, at Tryon Palace. "The War America Forgot" will include character based tours of the site's Federal era house, the Stanly House, as well as children's activities in the North Carolina History Center. Also, on Sunday afternoon, yours truly will be giving a lecture called North Carolina War of 1812 Personalities featuring brief character sketches of five North Carolinians of the period.
All in all, both weekends included, I think North Carolina has done quite a good job getting the Bicentennial commemoration started. Another symposium and living history program will be held in October, along with many other living history programs, lectures, etc. in between. I hope that you will find time to attend one or more of these great events!
This weekend the NC Department of Cultural Resources War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee officially begins its commemoration of the little remembered and even less understood war that was pivotal in creating a sense of national pride and unity both here in the United States and in Canada. The Committee will kick off it's commemoration with a day-long symposium focusing on the naval war on Friday, June 29 at the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort. Saturday the commemoration will continue with a living history program on the grounds of the Beaufort Historical Association featuring US Regulars, militia, British forces, and sailors.
There are also activities taking place in the colonial capital of New Bern, at Tryon Palace. "The War America Forgot" will include character based tours of the site's Federal era house, the Stanly House, as well as children's activities in the North Carolina History Center. Also, on Sunday afternoon, yours truly will be giving a lecture called North Carolina War of 1812 Personalities featuring brief character sketches of five North Carolinians of the period.
All in all, both weekends included, I think North Carolina has done quite a good job getting the Bicentennial commemoration started. Another symposium and living history program will be held in October, along with many other living history programs, lectures, etc. in between. I hope that you will find time to attend one or more of these great events!
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Moving Day for One of North Carolina's Largest Artifacts
After many years, stalled planning processes, negotiation, hand wringing, and construction the day finally arrived for the remains of the Confederate ironclad gunboat CSS Neuse to be moved to the soon-to-be-climate-controlled facility that is being built as the last resting place and museum for one of North Carolina's largest historic relics. Moving day was yesterday, June 23, 2012 and things got rolling very early. The movers had been on site all week, preparing the ship to be moved, separated into three sections as it was on the previous occasions of moving it. Each section was placed onto house moving dollies that once disconnected from the trucks that pulled them, could be operated via remote control in order to move each piece into place.
Staff members from the Division of Historic Sites arrived on site at 5:00 a.m. to prepare for the move. A few members of the press were on site to watch the trucks pull out onto West Vernon Avenue and begin the journey to Queen Street. Our Division Director, Keith Hardison was interviewed by the Civil War News prior to the commencement of the activities. A small group of spectators gathered to watch this beginning. It was amazing to see the movers get the three sections of ship out on the road, the smaller guys jumping around underneath each section making adjustments as the trucks were moving. I believe "situational awareness" was the word that was used to describe this process and they proved to be very adept at what they were doing. Photographers and videographers were in place to follow the ship on its entire journey. More press and many more interviews would follow when the ship arrived at the downtown location.
Once the three sections of ship (weighing in at 18 tons, 50 tons, and 39 tons) were all on Queen Street the entire block between Gordon and Caswell Streets was blocked off so the delicate work of getting the sections into the building could begin. There was a much larger crowd of onlookers at the downtown location and many stayed to watch the entire process. One of the best views was from the mezzanine inside the museum building. With great precision and attention to detail the movers got each section moved in, set up, and perfectly aligned below the "ghosting" structure that will be suspended over the hull depicting the outlines of the ship's upper half. The entire thing was done within about 5 hours. Now the construction must be completed and exhibits will have to be built and installed. The hope is to have the building open on a limited basis sometime before the end of the year and hopefully have a grand opening next summer. The work is far from finished, but the biggest piece of the puzzle is now in place.
Many people who have worked for many long years around the ship were present to witness the move, some retired and some still working. Unfortunately, Guy Smith, site manager for the past ten years who had overseen most of the process of getting the ship to this point, passed away just a month ago. As the last piece of the ship was moved into place I couldn't help but think of Guy and how I wish he could have been present. His family was present and I am happy that they will be able to see the final result of all the hard work he put into this project. It has been a tough month, with Guy's funeral being held just four weeks ago, but I think yesterday may have brought some closure for me, personally. Guy's legacy, and the legacy of many others who came before him, is going to live on in this new museum. It is definitely overdue for Eugene and Jann Brown (pictured below), Guy, and everyone else who has worked so hard to preserve this one-of-a-kind artifact.
Staff members from the Division of Historic Sites arrived on site at 5:00 a.m. to prepare for the move. A few members of the press were on site to watch the trucks pull out onto West Vernon Avenue and begin the journey to Queen Street. Our Division Director, Keith Hardison was interviewed by the Civil War News prior to the commencement of the activities. A small group of spectators gathered to watch this beginning. It was amazing to see the movers get the three sections of ship out on the road, the smaller guys jumping around underneath each section making adjustments as the trucks were moving. I believe "situational awareness" was the word that was used to describe this process and they proved to be very adept at what they were doing. Photographers and videographers were in place to follow the ship on its entire journey. More press and many more interviews would follow when the ship arrived at the downtown location.
Once the three sections of ship (weighing in at 18 tons, 50 tons, and 39 tons) were all on Queen Street the entire block between Gordon and Caswell Streets was blocked off so the delicate work of getting the sections into the building could begin. There was a much larger crowd of onlookers at the downtown location and many stayed to watch the entire process. One of the best views was from the mezzanine inside the museum building. With great precision and attention to detail the movers got each section moved in, set up, and perfectly aligned below the "ghosting" structure that will be suspended over the hull depicting the outlines of the ship's upper half. The entire thing was done within about 5 hours. Now the construction must be completed and exhibits will have to be built and installed. The hope is to have the building open on a limited basis sometime before the end of the year and hopefully have a grand opening next summer. The work is far from finished, but the biggest piece of the puzzle is now in place.
Many people who have worked for many long years around the ship were present to witness the move, some retired and some still working. Unfortunately, Guy Smith, site manager for the past ten years who had overseen most of the process of getting the ship to this point, passed away just a month ago. As the last piece of the ship was moved into place I couldn't help but think of Guy and how I wish he could have been present. His family was present and I am happy that they will be able to see the final result of all the hard work he put into this project. It has been a tough month, with Guy's funeral being held just four weeks ago, but I think yesterday may have brought some closure for me, personally. Guy's legacy, and the legacy of many others who came before him, is going to live on in this new museum. It is definitely overdue for Eugene and Jann Brown (pictured below), Guy, and everyone else who has worked so hard to preserve this one-of-a-kind artifact.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
And Speaking of Books......
Thanks to Andrew Wagenhoffer over at Civil War Books and Authors for posting an informative review of a new book dealing with Civil War naval history. While this book obviously has it's limitations, it sounds like a worthwhile read for folks who are truly interested in the subject matter.
Public Service Announcement
I normally don't post things like this, but I'm making an exception here since it is Civil War related and a number of my friends and colleagues are going to be there, including Michael Hardy and Judkin Browning. See announcement below:
High Country Festival of the Book’s Civil War Symposium - August 3, 2012 from 9:00 - 4:00 Blowing Rock, NC at the Meadowbrook Inn. Featuring Douglas Southall Freeman award-winning author Rod Gragg and Patrick Schroeder, Historian of Appomattox Court House National Battlefield and noted author/publisher. Additional speakers include authors Patricia Garber, Dr. Judkin Browning and Dr. Andrew Slap. On Saturday we have a Civil War panel discussion as part of our larger book festival with authors, Michael Hardy, Johnny Pearson, Rod Gragg, and Patrick Schroeder.
The Symposium is part of the High Country Festival of the Book. The cost for the Symposium is $50 and includes lunch and invitation to the evening opening ceremony with NC Poet Laureate, Fred Chappell (a portion of the entry fee is tax deductible). The events on Saturday are free and opened to the general public for more information on the Book Festival and Symposium tickets: www.highcountryfestivalofthebook.com
High Country Festival of the Book’s Civil War Symposium - August 3, 2012 from 9:00 - 4:00 Blowing Rock, NC at the Meadowbrook Inn. Featuring Douglas Southall Freeman award-winning author Rod Gragg and Patrick Schroeder, Historian of Appomattox Court House National Battlefield and noted author/publisher. Additional speakers include authors Patricia Garber, Dr. Judkin Browning and Dr. Andrew Slap. On Saturday we have a Civil War panel discussion as part of our larger book festival with authors, Michael Hardy, Johnny Pearson, Rod Gragg, and Patrick Schroeder.
The Symposium is part of the High Country Festival of the Book. The cost for the Symposium is $50 and includes lunch and invitation to the evening opening ceremony with NC Poet Laureate, Fred Chappell (a portion of the entry fee is tax deductible). The events on Saturday are free and opened to the general public for more information on the Book Festival and Symposium tickets: www.highcountryfestivalofthebook.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)