Age of Fear
by Zachary Smith
"Othering and American Identity during World War I"
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Age of Fear by Zachary Smith
Details
War:
World War I
Perspective:
Civilian
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Page Count:
249
Published Date:
2019
ISBN13:
9781421427287
Description
Main Themes and Topics
Age of Fear by Zachary Smith delves into the complex interplay of fear, nationalism, and racial identity during World War I. One of the central themes of the book is the concept of fear as a dangerous and influential force, often more perilous than the actual threats perceived during the war era. Smith explores how Germans and German Americans were viewed as a formidable enemy, drawing on long-standing suspicions that Americans held against foreign cultures. Additionally, the book examines the rise of nationalism and how it fueled hierarchical racism, creating a perception of Germans as the "Other" — uncivilized and threatening to the American way of life.
Writing Style and Tone
Zachary Smith employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style in Age of Fear. The tone is analytical and deeply introspective, offering readers a meticulously researched examination of a critical historical period. Smith balances detailed historical analysis with engaging narrative elements, which provide a comprehensive view of the societal dynamics and fears of the time. His ability to weave together personal anecdotes with broader social and political discourse helps to bring the era to life while maintaining academic rigor.
Brief Summary
Age of Fear explores the perception of Germans and German Americans as dangerous enemies during World War I, set against the backdrop of American society's celebrated diversity who nonetheless harbored deep suspicions about foreign populations. Zachary Smith argues that as the war intensified, so did the anxieties of white "Anglo-Saxon" Americans concerning their race, culture, and position of authority. The book investigates the rhetoric used by politicians, media, and artists, illustrating how these narratives shaped public opinion and reflected a broader societal fear of racial and ethnic pluralism. Smith also addresses how nationalism contributed to these fears, ultimately painting Germans both in the United States and abroad as existential threats to the perceived American identity.
