In Appreciation of Stickiness and the Midwest with Jon Lauck
Mar 8, 2023
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Jon Lauck, Professor at the University of South Dakota, discusses his book about the Midwest. They explore Midwest stereotypes, its future, cultural characteristics, race relations, education, and the power of being rooted in a community.
The Midwest in the 19th century emphasized democratic values, Christian principles, and literacy, striving to build a moral and virtuous society.
Being stuck in a place in the Midwest was viewed positively, fostering strong connections and a sense of purpose.
Small town life in the Midwest was characterized by a commitment to community, civic involvement, and moral values, creating a vibrant social fabric and a shared culture.
Deep dives
The Midwest in the 19th Century: Democratic, Christian, and Literate
The Midwest in the 19th century was characterized by a strong emphasis on democratic values, Christian principles, and literacy. The region was committed to building a constitutional order based on these principles and creating a moral and virtuous society. Education played a significant role, with land grant universities being established to promote practical education and research. The Midwest also saw a rise in social reform, with movements calling for rate setting commissions and antitrust laws. While there were flaws in race relations, there was progress, and the region was known for its integrated schools and churches. Overall, the Midwest sought to teach men to behave and cultivate a sense of community and civic responsibility.
The Importance of Place and Stickiness
The Midwest emphasized the importance of rootedness and a sense of place. Being stuck in a place was not seen as a negative, but rather as an opportunity to cultivate strong connections and contribute to the common good. People were encouraged to know their roots, build relationships, and engage in their communities. The sense of stickiness fostered a sense of purpose and fulfillment, providing a network of support and a deeper sense of belonging.
The Value of Small Town Life and Community
Small town life in the Midwest was characterized by a commitment to community, civic involvement, and moral values. People strived to be good neighbors and citizens, working together to address local issues and support one another. This sense of community created a vibrant social fabric and a shared culture. Small towns were places where people felt connected, cared for, and had a sense of belonging, which contributed to their happiness and overall well-being.
The Midwestern Experience: Mild Reform and Virtuous Living
The Midwest in the 19th century was marked by a culture of mild reform and virtuous living. While not radical, Midwesterners actively sought to address societal issues through democratic processes and practical reforms. They valued honesty, hard work, and personal responsibility. The emphasis on moral values and virtuous living shaped the social fabric of the Midwest and contributed to a sense of community and shared purpose. Midwesterners aimed to build a society built on Christian principles, democratic ideals, and a commitment to the common good.
Lessons for Today: Rootedness, Virtue, and Community
The values and principles embodied by the Midwest in the 19th century offer important lessons for today. Emphasizing rootedness, virtuous living, and community involvement can promote a sense of belonging, fulfillment, and well-being. Cultivating strong connections, engaging in local communities, and practicing civic responsibility foster a sense of purpose and contribute to the common good. By valuing our roots, cherishing the places we belong to, and actively participating in our communities, we can help create a society that is rooted in moral values, democratic principles, and a commitment to the well-being of all.
Often lampooned as boring, bland, and less important than other regions in the country, might it be that the Midwest actually has its own regional identity and a story worth telling? Jon Lauck, a professor at the University of South Dakota thinks so. In this episode Kevin talks to Jon about his excellent new book The Good Country: A History of the American Midwest 1800-1900. They explore what made the region from Ohio to the Dakotas different from New England and from the South and why the old virtues of the Midwest might just be worth pursuing today.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro and Sponsor
1:45 Guest: Jon Lauck
7:11 Midwest Definitions and Stereotypes
26:06 What is the Midwest's Future?
38:12 Sponsor 2: Scriptura
39:12 Midwest Cultural Characteristics
48:26 Reforms and Race Relations in the Midwest
53:02 The Land Grant Act and Universities
57:00 Teaching Men to Behave
1:00:45 Is It Bad to be Sticky?
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