State of the Union
State of the Union
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Brief
400
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 20th century
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
State of the Union by Nelson Lichtenstein explores the trajectory of organized labor in the 20th century United States, starting with the rise of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) in the 1930s. It documents the CIO's early victories, subsequent decline due to legislative and societal changes, the impact of the Taft-Hartley Act, the AFL-CIO merger, and the diminished influence of unions amid political shifts in the latter half of the century. The book addresses themes of economic struggle, racial dynamics, and political oppression.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Nelson Lichtenstein's State of the Union receives praise for its comprehensive analysis of American labor history, highlighting the interplay between labor movements and political dynamics. Critics commend its detailed research and insightful historical context but note a dense writing style that may challenge lay readers. Overall, it's a significant academic contribution to labor studies.
Who Should Read State of the Union?
A reader who would enjoy State of the Union by Nelson Lichtenstein is likely interested in labor history, social movements, and American political economy. Comparable to readers of Working by Studs Terkel or The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, they appreciate in-depth analysis of labor's impact on society.
400
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 20th century
2020
Adult
18+ years
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