Overview: “The Untold History of the United States”

Film director Oliver Stone and Associate Professor of History at American University Peter Kuznick have collaborated on a comprehensive book and a “Showtime” ten part documentary series called “The Untold History of the United States.” I was fortunate to see Stone, Kuznick and former Harper’s Magazine editor Lewis Lapham being interviewed by Fordham University Professor Thane Rosenbaum in a highly entertaining and informative event at the 92nd Street Y in New York City.

People, including me, get worked up about politics and history, and within reason, that is a good thing. Issues should be discussed without people going “too crazy.” Sadly, my closest living relative does not speak to me, in part, because of differing political viewpoints. This book and documentary series will certainly open up “discussions” and to this point, not much has been refuted. However, as Mr. Stone himself said at the 92nd Street Y interview, “it is early.”

The visual and dramatic presentation (the documentary) is surely worth seeing. Clearly, much needs to be corrected here in the United States and anywhere. Whether it is in a lover’s quarrel, a family situation or a business matter there is something to be said for understanding the other point of view. Pride exists in our families, religion and country but that does not supersede the fact we are all human beings. There needs to be an accounting for things done and the book and series make good cases enlightening us about past horrific deeds perpetrated by our government. On the other hand, Stone can certainly formulate scenarios with “help” he has given along the way. Either way, read the book and see the series. Each is a comprehensive, detail filled overview of history.

This from the book’s “foreword” regarding perspective: “Historical understanding defines people’s very sense of what is thinkable and achievable. As a result, many have lost the ability to imagine a world that is substantially different from and better than what exists today.” Open it up: both the book and your mind. If it does nothing else you will think, and think about history. I fervently wish a history course ripe with excitement was available in my school days when let’s just say the U.S. did have fifty states but had not had that many for too long. I look forward to the documentary airing on Monday nights at 8 p.m. Eastern time on Showtime and to reading “The Untold History of the United States.”