Big D: Triumphs and Troubles of an American Supercity in the 20th Century

by Darwin Payne

Newly revised edition of a book that first appeared in 1994 and sold out of the first two printings. The present edition brings the history of Dallas up to date, reaching into the year 2000. It's a lively but authoritative history of Dallas in the 20th century. Special attention to local politics, race relations, crime, and civic leadership.

Genres: History

497 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1994

Reviews

[Susan Springfield]

This is a very good, detailed history of Dallas during its development in 20th century. Darwin Payne was a journalist (he used to own the Suburban Tribune, the newpaper of the Pleasant Grove area of Dallas) and professor at SMU (where I knew him). This book is written in a journalistic manner and is easily accessible. I think this book is a great gift for anyone who grew up in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I liked it so much that I gave it to my mother (not a native Dallasite but lived there for 60+ years) for her birthday. Note: I proofread a couple of chapters for Darwin; therefore, I'm a bit biased towards him.

[Martha]

This was most interesting about my native city. Payne starts with the beginning of Dallas and brings it up to the present. I loved it.

[Rainer Bantau]

Superb resource detailing the history of Big D.