Drawing on a range of documents from magazine and newspaper accounts to government reports and important nonfiction, Philip R. Yannella explores the subjects that engaged American writers during this pivotal period and situates major works within history.
Topics covered include Civil War memory, the virtual re-enslavement of African-Americans after Reconstruction, poverty and plenty, immigration and migration, social movements aimed at radically changing America, and post-World War I conservative triumphs. Includes a historical timeline, featuring key literary works and historical events.