Oregon: A History

by Gordon B. Dodds

To many Americans, Oregon is an idyllic, fruitful garden on the northwestern shore of a troubled urban nation. But, as author Gordon B. Dodds explains in this thoughtful history, behind that image lies the story of a state that has retained many of the conservative values of its first settlers while accommodating the forces of national development. Generations of Oregonians have searched out and found a moderate path where quiet competence, self-restraint, loyalty, and trust have been the greatest virtues. Today, Oregonians can be proud that other Americans look to their state "for inspiration in responsible government, civil personal relationships, and respect for the natural world." Whether they look with nostalgia or anticipation, the future will judge. 

Genres: History

272 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1977

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 2 out of 5]

Reading this book cover to cover was an endurance test. However, it earns a second star since it gave me a much deeper understanding of how Oregon became what it is today. It delves a bit deeper into the political history of the state than the game "Oregon Trail" however, this account seems grossly imbalanced in it's attempt to cover the time span implied by the title. It covers 1830-1900 in great detail and then skims the surface of a few notable events between 1900 to 1950. Enjoy.

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was written as part of The States and the Nation series, a bicentennial effort in 1976 to publish one book per state on the history of each. I found this a refreshing overview of the state's history, spending many more pages on the earlier eras than the latter ones. Nothing goes too in depth but there is a comprehensiveness that I found surprising for such a short book. The writing was dry at times yet kept a decent pace. Certainly one worth checking out if you want a traditional and brief look at Oregon's past.