Book pick: California – A History
Photo: Amazon.com
California – A History
Kevin Starr
This 370-page summary of California’s history combines textbook-worthy material with a rich narrative of a novel.
The author, University Professor at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, a former state librarian, and resident of both L.A. And San Francisco, infuses his book with well-researched information and a Californian’s appreciation for the state and its people. At the same time, Starr puts California on the global stage and describes both its accomplishments and challenges throughout the years, in a no-nonsense fashion.
Through the examination of California’s beginnings – its Colonial and Mexican years – then the establishment of an American state, industrial revolution, post-WWII suburban growth and, finally, the state’s 21st century affairs, the author seeks to explain the phenomenon of the region’s rapid growth and continuing world-wide influence.
In the preface, Starr wonders, “Where did it come from – this nation-state, the world commonwealth, this California? How did an American state, one in fifty, rise to such global stature, with its $1.5 trillion economy making it, as of 2005, the fifth-ranking economy on the planet?” Readers should have a good idea after reaching for the volume.
An added bonus is the state’s detailed chronology and a list of suggested readings.
The book is recommended for California enthusiasts and visitors, and those looking for a concise, yet informative, chronicle of the state.
Category: GOOD READS
About the Author (Author Profile)
Pola Henderson is the founder and editor of Jetting Around. She grew up in Krakow, Poland, lived in North Africa, and has called Chicago home since 2002. Traveling internationally has been a part of her life since she was 3 years old. When she isn't busy in her day job, Pola ventures out to explore cities and their culture. View more...Subscribe
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I am going to have to read it, I know it. I love love love California and get there as often as I can – at least once a year. It always puzzles me though to think that it is bankrupt!!
@mrsoaroundworld recently posted..Wine, sun and lux in Alentejo, Portugal
I feel the same way about the bankruptcy issue! It almost seems unbelievable… I love California too and bought the book the second I spotted it. Now I have a pretty good understanding of some of the aspects of the state’s history I had been curious about, especially the Mexican era. Cheers to my fellow Cali fan! :)
Hmmm…this sounds like a great end of summer read!
D.J. – The World of Deej recently posted..Top of the Mark – A Date With History
I like that! :) Thanks, Daniel.
I’ve been to California once – in the far, far northwest part of the state. Perhaps this book will give me a better idea of what goes on everywhere else?? ;-)
Francesca recently posted..Wordless Wednesday: Make Way For Ducklings
It certainly will! :) Not only is there a lot about the northern and southern parts of the state, but also about Baja California.
California is an interesting and diverse state like so many of the states in the USA. when visiting Palm Springs recently, i learned how some of history has affected current day laws in terms of gambling and the gold rush. wonder if any of this is covered in this book?!
lola recently posted..Cambodia Countdown – week 3
There is quite a lot about the Gold Rush in the book, perhaps some of that ties in to the laws you mention. And I agree that California is interesting. I have been there several times and feel like there is so much more left to explore…
California really does have a cool history with the gold rush and stuff. I love reading about the Western Expansion.
Leah Travels recently posted..Texas Tuesday: The Best Ice Cream in the Country
I have a novel on my shelf about life during the Gold Rush. That should be an interesting read too!
I wonder is the author talks about the making a 51st US state with a divide between the north and the south. I’ll never forget seeing a story on that when in Europe like it was about to happen..
Yes, California was and continues to be an interesting place.
stay adventurous, Craig
Craig Zabransky recently posted..Ronda – More than the Birthplace of Bullfighting
There definitely is mention of the differences between the northern and southern parts. Imagine if they actually split… What stands out in my mind is the division between Baja and Alta California, something the author described generously.
Perhaps California has some politicians similar to those in Illinois. Corruption is not good for the economy. Looks like an interesting read.
Traveling Ted recently posted..Life after dropping out of Nomadic Samuel’s top 100 travel blogs
Yes, there are quite a lot of pages in the book devoted to politics throughout the decades… My favorite parts, though, are the ones about innovation, something California has certainly excelled at.
love your book recommendations! we need to start keeping a list so that we always have something pola-approved downloaded on our kindles.
the lazy travelers recently posted..making a case for driving in costa rica
Haha, I’d be happy and honored if my recommendations made it to your Kindle! :)
We’re really big fans of California. The scenery is just as diverse as the population. Thanks for the recommendation. We’ll have to check it out!
Tawny- Captain and Clark recently posted..N Seoul Tower is Quite the Trip. [video]
Yes, the scenery is one of the main draws for me! The state is so huge with so much to see… I love the ocean, the redwoods to the north, and the desert in the south.