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Northern Appalachia has a fascinating economic history. Pennsylvania, Ohio, Upstate New York, West Virginia, and Maryland were the early leaders of American cottage industry. The coal-rich hills and rushing rivers were a fertile birthplace for America's industrial revolution. Canals and railroads flourished. Many of America's great companies would call the region home: U.S. Steel, Standard Oil, Alcoa, and many more. The region powered America's war machine from colonial times, through the Civil War, and well into the 20th century.
In the 20th century, triumphant history turned tragic. After World War II, many countries copied the success of America's heavy industry. America's modern workers couldn't compete with global producers. Northern Appalachian companies died slowly but decisively, leaving many people without work. The negative effects still linger in Northern Appalachia's industrial cities and factory towns. People are poor, unhealthy, and unhappy.
To help, both America and Northern Appalachia need to get real. Everybody can move forward with wisdom and legitimacy. "Hammer to Hypertext" focuses on West Virginia's coal, Pennsylvania's natural gas, and New York's microchip manufacturing. More broadly: How can communities help themselves? And how can Northern Appalachian moxie help a dispirited America?
