New Books in History

Dr. Ashley D. Farmer, a celebrated historian and author, dives into the remarkable life of Audley Moore, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in Black radicalism. They discuss Moore's significant contributions to Black nationalism and the reparations movement. Farmer shares her research journey, revealing the scarcity of archival materials and the challenges in reconstructing Moore's impactful legacy. She emphasizes the essential role of Black women in political movements and how Moore's vision connects grassroots organizing with the fight for nationhood.

In this discussion, Anthony Valerio, a seasoned writer and editor, delves into the life of Ignaz Semmelweis, the often-overlooked pioneer of antiseptic procedures. He shares Semmelweis's struggle against medical orthodoxy and the groundbreaking discovery of handwashing to combat childbed fever. Valerio reveals Semmelweis's tumultuous journey from a Buda spice merchant's son to a medical visionary, while also exploring the mental toll of his resistance from peers. The conversation highlights Semmelweis's enduring legacy in saving lives and influencing medical practices.

Paul Galvez, an art historian specializing in modern painting, dives into Gustave Courbet's overlooked landscape works that laid the groundwork for modernism. He discusses the significance of these paintings in relation to historical consciousness and materiality. Galvez elaborates on Courbet's unique painting techniques and the challenges of reproducing his works in print. The conversation also touches on artist intention, avoiding commercial interpretations, and Courbet's lasting influence on future generations of artists. His upcoming project on Gauguin's ceramic sculptures promises to be equally intriguing!

Selena Daly, an Associate Professor of Italian Studies and historian, dives into the fascinating world of Italian emigrant soldiers during WWI. Over 300,000 returned to fight for Italy, and she explores their motivations, from patriotism to family ties. Using letters and diaries, she reconstructs their diverse experiences, including the challenges of reintegration and identity strains at the front. Daly also examines the chaotic aftermath of war, the difficulties of demobilization, and how policies from Mussolini affected these veterans. A captivating journey into a unique historical phenomenon!

Cristina Plamadeala, a scholar specializing in surveillance and transitional justice, delves into her groundbreaking book, exploring the haunting world of Romania's Securitate archives. She reveals how 'dossierveillance'—the pervasive fear stemming from surveillance files—shaped everyday life under Nicolae Ceauşescu. Cristina connects historical abuses to modern surveillance, emphasizing the complex interplay of victim and perpetrator roles. She reflects on personal motivations behind her research, illustrating the lasting impact of past regimes on contemporary society.

Danny Orbach, a Senior Lecturer at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and author, dives deep into the world of those who plotted against Hitler. He reveals the complex motivations behind German resistance, including their moral ambiguities and the gripping history of their conspiratorial networks. Discover how lone wolves like Georg Elser operated, why pivotal events in 1938 shaped military opposition, and the daring details of the July 20 plot. Orbach reflects on the legacy of these resisters, emphasizing the challenges they faced and the bravery required to stand against tyranny.

Angelos Chaniotis, a Professor of Ancient History and Classics at Princeton, delves into the complexities of the Hellenistic world from Alexander's legacy to Hadrian. He argues for extending the Hellenistic period beyond Cleopatra, highlighting cultural continuities and how new archaeological finds reshape our understanding. The discussion covers topics like the social mobility of artists, the spread of mystery cults, and Roman entanglement with Greek societies, painting a vivid picture of a world rich in cultural exchange and political intrigue.

Becky M. Nicolaides, a historian and author specializing in Los Angeles suburban history, discusses how the Hart-Celler Act of 1965 transformed suburbia. She explores the contrasting responses of four LA suburbs to increasing diversity, from the affluent San Marino to working-class South Gate. Becky reveals how Latino newcomers revitalized neighborhoods and the complexities of suburban integration. With insights into local racial politics and community resilience, she challenges the idea that diversity automatically leads to equity.

Peter D. Blackmer, an associate professor at Eastern Michigan University, dives into the grassroots movements in Harlem that shaped the Black Power era. He discusses the hidden influences behind his research, like archival discoveries and transformative figures such as Malcolm X. Blackmer highlights the significant link between local struggles and global anti-colonialism. He emphasizes the importance of long-term organizing, revealing how systemic repression fueled uprisings. His insights offer a fresh perspective on the dynamics of race, resistance, and community identity.

Martyn Whittock, a historian and author, delves into the Vikings’ lesser-known eastern journeys in his compelling work. They explored the origins of the Rus and their cultural assimilation with Slavs, revealing the impact on Russian identity. Whittock highlights the Vikings' roles in state formation and trade routes, including interactions with Byzantium. He explores how these historical narratives have been repurposed by modern leaders, including Putin, to legitimize power. The discussion makes clear how myths shape contemporary politics and identities in Russia and Ukraine.