Dissent in America: The Voices That Shaped a Nation

by Ralph F. Young

This collection of primary sources presents the story of US History as told by dissenters who, throughout the course of American history, have fought to gain rights they believed were denied to them or others, or who disagree with the government or majority opinion. Each document is introduced by placing it in its historical context, and thought-provoking questions are provided to focus the student when they read the text. Instructors are at liberty to choose the documents that best highlight a theme they wish to emphasize.

Genres: History, Politics, Nonfiction, American History

792 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2006

Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An informative and intriguing dive into the voices that disagreed with the status quo from our nation’s beginning, this book helped deepen my understanding of American history. There is nothing like reading the words of dissenters, rebels, and radicals to help paint a more complete portrait of the U.S. through time.

[Diana]

I am getting antsy and excited about teaching again. That means I start gravitating toward books that I want to have in my classroom and books that provide materials to subtly influence my students to bend under my will! muhaHA! Somewhat analogous to Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States", "Descent in America: The Voices That Shaped a Nation: 400 years of speeches, sermons, arguments, articles, letters, and songs that made a difference" encapsulates struggles through the words of leaders - some well known, others known only to those of whom they affected. Dammit kids! You can make a difference! (cue "the more you know" jingle)

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most of this book is not contemporary, and therefore cannot be used for the anthology, but the entries towards the end are a good fit for the essay category. They are by people the students may have heard of (Michael Moore, Ralph Nader), so they may catch the student's interest.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title says it all…. A great resource for anyone looking for an alternative portrait of U.S. History from the standard textbook portrayal and for all those history lovers who have a slightly rebellious side!

[Vincent Harris]

I bought this at the A & M bookstore while on a trip with Fulmore GT students.