American Exceptionalism?: US Working-Class Formation in an International Context

Halpern, Rick; Morris, Jonathan

The idea that American historical development is different from that of other nations is an old one, yet it shows no sign of losing its emotive power. 'Exceptionalism' continues to excite, beguile, and frustrate students of the American past. The essays in this volume explore the ways in which the process of class formation in the United States can be said to be distinctive. Focusing upon the impact of liberal political thought, race and immigration, and the role of the war-time state, they challenge particularist and nation-centred modes of explanation. Comparing American historical development with Italian, South African, and Australian examples, the essays reinvigorate a tired debate.

Details

Published by: Palgrave Macmillan

Publication Date: 1997-01-01

Format: Paperback

ISBN-10: 9781349255863

ISBN-13: 9781349255863

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-349-25584-9

Dimensions: 216cm x140cm

Pages: 325