Joy Hakim

A History of US

All the People

1945-1999

Right after World War II, the United States unselfishly helped her former enemies, the defeated nations, by giving money and aid through the Marshall Plan. At the same time, American soldiers were given free college tuitions under the GI Bill. Together they were among the most enlightened efforts in world history–and they paid off. Then came the Civil Rights movement with, finally, a national realization that "all men are created equal" makes sense--and that it means all people of all backgrounds and women, too. This remarkable, creative time also included destructive wars: a cold war, the Korean War, and Vietnam. All the People tells of September 11, 2001 and the Iraq war. It explains the differences between Sunnis, Shiites, and Kurds. And it asks some questions about the future.

Quotes

"On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson, up from Montreal, batted in Brooklyn for the first time as a major leaguer. He was put out four times that day. He didn't do much better the rest of the week (But soon he did better-much better.)... Jackie Robinson had won the affection and respect of his fellow ballplayers and of the nation. He was the first; he took the punishment, he made it easy for those who followed. Baseball was now the national pastime for all the people."

"When North Korea's army entered South Korea, it was a test for the world community, and for Truman and his policy of containing communism (keeping it from expanding into new regions). The world had stood by and let Hitler conquer weaker nations. This time there would be no giving in. The United Nations acted quickly. The United States led the response. The Cold War had turned hot. The Korean War had begun."

"These people [the masterminds of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States] were using the language of the Islamic religion to justify murder."

"We know that being a productive citizen in a nation dedicated to liberty and justice for all takes effort and education. True freedom (which is different from no-government anarchy) involves responsibilities and participation. Solid citizens consider options, ask questions, make choices, and stand up for their beliefs. Are freedom and democracy worth it? What do you think?"